Question:
Is it a good idea to change insurance companies for this surgery.

My insurance has an exclusion policy that says no way no how. Even if it is considered medically necessary to save my life they will not cover it. How do other insurance companys handle people who change to get a specific coverage.    — Rebecca H. (posted on January 13, 2002)

January 13, 2002
Hi, I can tell you that I was put on my hubby's insurance on Nov 1st... Scheduled consult was Nov 15th.. approved for surgery Dec 5.. after 5 days... Good Luck! Branny
   — Branwen W.

January 13, 2002
I can tell you that I was in the middle of the appeal process with Keystone Health Plan when our open enrollment came up at my company. Keystone also refused to do the surgery under any circumstances. I had done research and knew that Aetna would cover the surgery because of the medical necessity. I signed up in November, it went into effect Jan 1 of last year and I had my referral to the surgeon on Jan 4. Had no problems with them paying for everything when I had my surgery in April last year. I really don't think they can change the rules they follow based on how long you have had the insurance. Hope this helps.
   — cheryl R.

January 13, 2002
Hi, I was like you. Carelink, said no way no how. My husbands open enrollment came about July of last year, the first day, we canceled Carelink, went to PEIA, and I had my first consult July 20th, Peia received my paper work on Aug 12th and I was approved Aug 15th. I had surgery on Oct 4th. And I am much more happier with PEIA. I am glad that we switched. Most insurance companies look at it like you had insurance prior so they will go ahead and cover it. Just make sure that you pick one that will most likely cover it. That is what I did. I researched it first. God bless and Good luck.
   — TONYA B.