Question:
I acquired $5K - What's the fastest way I can earn enough to cash-pay for an RNY?

Where should I invest this money? My husband's insurance clearly states that Morbid Obesity is not covered under ANY circumstances, so I feel I will have to cash-pay. How long (estimate) will it take me to save up $15-$20K? Please e-mail your answers to [email protected]    — Atlertx L. (posted on February 20, 2003)

February 20, 2003
Sandy- If I were you I would STILL pursue the insurance company. Appeal if youmust, but don't give up over their "statement" - that is what they want you to do. My insurance said it didn't cover any weight loss "anything" but a letter from my surgeon saying "if she does not get this surgery, she risks death" was all they required. Save your cash for co-pays or out of pocket expenses... or use a small portion to pursue surgery with a lawyer. I just wouldn't give up so easily- until you've exhausted every outlet. Good luck. KR
   — Karen R.

February 20, 2003
I would take part of that 5,000 and buy a health insurance policy that WOULD cover it.....There are many out there and now even most HMO's cover this surgery because of the "medical necessity"...
   — Joi G.

February 20, 2003
What a loaded question! My only comment is to be careful. "Get rich quick" schemes aren't the answer here. Please keep in mind your question is being seen by thousands of people and no one can verify anyone's honesty here. Think twice about any "offers" you may receive privately too. Your best bet is to purchase an insurance policy where wls is not excluded. Do your homework and find out which ones they are. At least you'll have something for your money. This alternate route doesn't guarantee anything. Good luck to you!
   — thumpiez

February 20, 2003
Basically, the greater the chance of a high return on your money, the higher the risk. I'd be inclined to put that money into a nice safe CD unless you're willing to gamble on losing your original investment.
   — sjwilde

February 20, 2003
I agree with Joi!! Research wisely and purchase an insurance company that will approve the surgery. Just make sure you check out their secondary insurance policies, especially on HMO's. If you can...purchase a year and then have your husband drop you from his at open enrollment and then re-add you next year. Just make sure their are no pre-existing condition clauses with either policy. Good luck...keep us updated! :o) mk
   — Michelle K.

February 20, 2003
hi - i would do like karen said , pursue the insurance . my husbands policy does not cover wls , but several have said on the phone to pursue it , if the surgeon gives good info , they will cover if it is medically necessary . it is worth a try before putting out alot of money if it is not necessary too . i don't see the surgeon until late may , but i can only hope , if no luck , i will decide what to do then ...... good luck to you ....................
   — patti G.

February 21, 2003
Borrow another 5000 and go to Brazil for a DS! You can do it all for about 10,000! Get in touch if you would like anymore info! Jackie
   — Jacklyn C.

February 21, 2003
I would use the 5K to purchase an individual insurance policy that covers wls. This will be cheaper in the long run than self pay. You may have to wait 6 months due to pre-existing conditions, but I think you'd have to wait longer than 6 months to double or triple your money through investments. Check the insurers section of this website for more info.
   — Kristen S.