Question:
I am going through the appeal process, please tell me your experiences

Hi, I am going through this appeal process and just want to hear other people's stories. Especially those that have won their cases, how long it took, how many times they had to appeal, etc.. I am still waiting to hear from the insurance and just was curious about what anyone else is going through. Thank you    — Leah G. (posted on June 11, 2002)

June 11, 2002
Well my experience with my insurance company was a disaster. I had a BMI of 63, had 6 of the 7 comorbidities that the NIH says qualifies you for surgery if you have only 1 and a BMI over 35. My policy stated that it DID cover WLS if it is considered as "medically necessary." Despite all my health problems, they denied me saying it wasn't medically necessary because I didn't have 12 consecutive months of Dr. Monitored Dieting. After doing my own level one appeal to no avail and talking to my HR department and getting no help, I hired Walter Lindstrom from obesitylaw.com and he handled my level 2 appeal. I got approved within 3 days of when he sent in my 28 page legal brief/appeal letter. Now am about 3 months post op and down 80 lbs. If you are having any insurance troubles, I would highly recommend Walter.
   — Dell H.

June 12, 2002
I was denied 3 times by my insurance company, should have hired Walter the first time, now I am waiting for the state appeal, I should know by next week. I did this appeal on my own. I have been waiting for 20 days, usually you get an answer within 30 days.
   — Luisa H.