Question:
How much should I expect to pay out of pocket?

I have good insurance but a cheap employer. To save on expenses they had written into the policy that this surgery is not covered for their employees. We called the insurer before anything and asked if they cover RNY they said yes when medically founded. We jumped through all the hoops and even had an appointment with the surgeon today but his person called and told us the news. Our policy does not cover it no matter what. I'm calling back the surgeon tomorrow to see what other body parts I have to sell while their in there but I was just wondering if anyone has any idea of cost? Thanks    — Paul M. (posted on August 4, 2003)

August 4, 2003
Here in Arizona, my Doctor, Dr. Jaurez charged my insurance company just over $30,000. His cash price was then around $26,000. That included 3 days hospitol stay but did not cover prelim. tests or shrink consult. I had to pay approx. $1,800 out of pocket for co/pay and items not covered. I was able to use a credit card for the co/pay. I went through two insurance companies before my current one covered the surgery. Good luck and best wishes.
   — Laura K.

August 4, 2003
I just paid out of pocket for my daughter, $29,500 for California. It's totally worth it.
   — sandieguy

August 5, 2003
Paul, have you tried to have your employer give you a rider so you can have this surgery based on medical necessity?? Maybe trying to convince your employer would be the way to go?? Also if you're wanting to stay with the doctor you were scheduled to have your consult with you should ask them specifically how much they'll charge if you pay cash up front. I think it varies widely. Also if you're self pay you might want to check on surgeons who have a cost containment feature that way if you have complications you aren't going to be bankrupt from the hospitalization. Something to consider.
   — Shelly S.

August 5, 2003
I was in the same situation with my previous insurance BCBS of Oregon. They had a written exclusion that was impossible to permeate. Now uninsured and unempolyed my family was able to loan me the money to self pay. I paid $21, 800 up front. That included the surgeon, asst. surgeon, anesthesiologist, and support group program fee of $500 and a $13,000 deposit to the hospital. All my follow up visits for the first year are free. I knew there would be additional charges from the hospital. I just got the bill for an additional $5,500. I contacted the hospital financial department and because of my low income status may be able to have them write off the remainder. It was a lot of money but well worth it. I am greatful to have family who could help me. I had no complications and am doing great. A little over two weeks post op and have lost at last weigh in 25 pounds. Good luck. Kelly
   — Kelly R.

August 5, 2003
My doctor charged $6900. which included the price of the hospital, doctor fees, medications, lab work, everything. His fee is going up to $8500. at the beginning of the new year. His name is Alejandro Aguirre and he practices in Ensenada, Mexico. He did a fantastic job on me. I have had zero complications and I feel fantastic. Many Americans are going to him, in fact, I think he's completely booked up until the first of the year. If you have any questions, please contact me. I would do it again in a heartbeat. In fact, when I get ready for plastic surgery, I'm going back to Ensenada for it. I got much better medical care and true concern and care about me as a patient there than I have ever received in the United States.
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 5, 2003
I am paying right at 6,000.00 by being a member of Care Entree. If you are interested in info let me know. I am also Rep. for them.IMR# 324606 Calie Foreman
   — Calie F.

August 5, 2003
I know I'm going to be unpopular here but I think its terribly important to remember that health insurance through our employers is a godsend, period. For a really large company, or a government agency, or a university, the pool of employees more than offsets the terrifyingly expensive procedures that folks may have to go through to find health again. But with small companies there are often exclusions because high-level insurance coverage must be spread among all the employees, and then premiums go up. So the employers are not "cheap" nor are they villains: for the small family owned or mid-sized company, fighting to even afford insurance for all employees has been a losing battle in the last few years. Sorry, but I've seen both sides of this issue and have learned not to take sides...
   — Deborah M.

August 5, 2003
my surgeons fee was 3100 dollars and the hospital cost were 12000 all up front the dr fee covers all visits for four years.pretty reasonable for a longer better life
   — mike R.