Question:
The Indian Health Service has turned me down.

The Indian Health Service is the only coverage I have; there is no way I can ever afford any surgery. I have a BMI of 77% and I need help badly, but the IHS will not pay. I feel like I am doomed. Does anyone have any suggestions?    — [Anonymous] (posted on September 19, 1999)

September 19, 1999
Did they give you a reason WHY they won't pay? Even if they didn't, get a hold of Walter Lindstrom. I know it seems like a lot of money to get a lawyer, but I just re-visited his website, and he's lowered his rates to about $500 total for him to do all the work. See if there's something he can do for you. Hang in there. :-)
   — Molly S.

September 19, 1999
i was turned down also by indian services cus they did not do that kink of surgery there and would not pay for a doctor to preform it ,, but i got on ssi and medicare is going to pay for my wls.... your bmi is 77 so most likly you can not work and or , have health problems,, from the weight , try to go that rout ,, and some dr. will do wls for you free if you have a hard luck storie to tell the news media and will draw business his way , try that !
   — [Anonymous]

September 20, 1999
Which IHS hosp are you talking about. I retired from the Anch Indian Health Hosp. and I heard they are thinking of doing this type of surgery. Write me privately at [email protected] I will fill you in on what I know.
   — [Anonymous]