Question:
Tricare Prime approval for partial hysterectomy & tummy tuck at same time?

I've already read thru the library here on AMOS and couldn't find many answers. I have Tricare Prime insurance and my PCM is at a military treatment facility. I had LAP-RNY at Vanderbilt in Nashville 8 months ago. I was referred off the military base due to a moderately severe heart condition. I am now faced with the option of having the inside of my uterus burned out or having a partial hysterectomy. If I choose the partial hysterectomy I'll be referred to Vanderbilt for that procedure. Since surgery is risky for me, I would like to have a tummy tuck done at the same time. Is there anyone out there who has had Tricare Prime cover their tummy tuck outside a military base? Or is there anyone out there who has had a partial hysterectomy and tummy tuck done at the same time? I want to be well informed about the procedures and my options.    — Skinny M. (posted on January 8, 2003)

January 8, 2003
I have not had WLS yet, I am still in the process of getting everything approved. However, my PCM says that Tricare Prime will pay for a tummy tuck as a reconstructive surgery status post WLS. It must be worded right. In the area I am at- I will have my WLS with an off base doctor and if a tummy tuck is needed after losing the weight- that will also be done with a referral to a civillian doctor. I would think they would approve it IF it is worded as reconstuctive. Good Luck
   — Jan S.