Question:
I was just denied because of my co-morbidites not being life threating which are High

Blood Pressure, Very High Cholestrol and Asthma. I am very disappointed and really want to have the surgery done. They didn't say anything about my BMI 38, or age of 56. I have Blue Cross HMO Insurance. Please let me know if anyone else was denied because of these co-morbidites. Thank you so much for your support/concern. Susan    — Susan D. (posted on March 22, 2003)

March 22, 2003
They likely denied you because you BMI is 38. Typically your BMI must be 40+ in order to qualify for insurance approval.
   — Jenny B.

March 22, 2003
Perhaps with a BMI of 38 they require life-threatening co-morbidities like sleep apnea. You should call them and have them explain what is required.
   — [Deactivated Member]

March 22, 2003
I just looked at your profile, and if I read it correctly, you don't look like you weight 100lbs overweight. Usually one of the requirments is 100lbs overwieght.
   — romoa5

March 22, 2003
I agree with the previous posters. If you lost 100 lbs or more you would be under 90lbs. One of the requirements from my insurance company was that I had to be over 100lbs over my ideal weight. At a starting weight of 318, I was well over that. Good luck.
   — J. W.

March 22, 2003
Isn't it possible that the high blood pressure and cholesterol aren't due to your weight, so surgery wouldn't help with these conditions.
   — Sarahlicious

March 22, 2003
High BP and cholestrol are definetely life threatening. Insurance trying to save money:(
   — bob-haller

March 22, 2003
I have read over and over that qualifications are 40+BMI, OR 35-39BMI WITH COMORBIDITIES...which sounds to me as though you should have qualified... even if you don't have 100 lbs to lose. I would ask to speak with someone regarding your company's policies and why you were denied.. Also would work on appealing, with a physician's letter to back you up, stating the danger of living with the conditions you currently have, and that losing weight would significantly decrease the risks for you. Good Luck.
   — Kelly B.