Question:
I have blue cross and blue shield of Tennessee......and there is a written exclusion

as follows services or supplies related to obesity, including surgical or other treatment of morbid obesity. I guess my question is do you think that even with this exclusion (and being told that it is statewide and not just on my policy) that I could have it approved? Has anyone in tennessee come across this problem??? E-mail me at [email protected] if you can help me out....becuase right now I am looking into self pay but I am afraid that I wont be able to get the tummy tuck and such later on then....I am afraid the cost down the line would just be way too much. Thanks tina cantrell    — iamtina (posted on September 10, 2002)

October 4, 2002
I have the exact same exclusion. I also would appreciate any and all information. From what I have been able to research it looks as though if you fight and prove medical necessity the insurance doesn't have a choice. Melissa
   — Melissa S.

October 5, 2002
I do not know how much this will help, but I also have BCBS but of Illinois. I was informed that they will approve it if my doc states there is a medical need for it. I had to be morbidly obese for at least 5 years and have had to try at least 5 different clinical diets, I also would have had to have some type of medical condition that was cause by the obesity which I do.(High Blood Pressure)My Doctor has now given me a referral to start the process and I will be seeing the endocrinologist 10/25/02. I hope this has helped you. Its worth the try. Good luck to you.
   — Cathy B.

May 2, 2003
Dr.Aguirre in Ensenada.Mexico does Open-Rny for a total cost of $6,900.00 this includes everything, hospital and pre-op testing.
   — latrishanickle