Question:
soon I'll be covered by Aetna HMO, How long should I wait before requesting approval

My coverage with, Aetna US Healthcare HMO, begins in Nov. 2000. ( this is also my companies open enrollment period with Aetna) I' would like to have the surgery as soon as possible and have numerous medical reasons to have it done. By biggest fear is that it will be denied by aetna. My question is inorder to have the greatest chance of being aproved should I wait for some period of time or does it make a difference??? I would like to have it done ASAP!!! I would appreciate and and all info or input. Please help me!! [email protected]    — Mona K. (posted on August 11, 2000)

August 11, 2000
Dear Mona, that really depends on what your policy says about pre-existing conditions. I also have Aetna HMO but I was covered almost a year before I began my process. I got a referral from my PCP to a surgeon & he submitted a letter to get the surgery approved. I am now at 12 days & Counting:) Read your employee copy of your new policy carefully. Then if you need to, you can always call member information to ask questions about coverage. You don't have to identify yourself just have your policy number for them to check. Also Aetna has their own website: http://www.aetnaushc.com/ I went to it to get general info on their policy about WLS, there is also info on their review processes. But for specifics you need to check your policy. Good Luck Jumping through all the Hoops:) Sending Warm Skinny thoughts your way:) ttfn
   — Barbara I.

August 11, 2000
Mona, I have Aetna US Healthcare. I don't know how long you have to have the coverage, but when your company starts with them they should have some representatives there to answer any questions. I received my approval from them in ten days, so you should be ok.
   — mbanks