Question:
Does anyone know Prudential policy on WLS? Is there a good chance of approval?

   — Bonnie S. (posted on June 9, 2000)

June 9, 2000
BONNIE, I have Prudential Healthchoice HMO and I was approved within 18 hours of the surgeon submitting my request for WLS. My policy is out of Jacksonville, Florida so I am not sure if this has a bearing on getting your approval. From what I understand, Prudential was bought out by Aetna which is very Pro-WLS. I think they are one of the few insuurance companies that are really timely in their response time. Just make sure you and your primary care physician have all your ducks in a row when you go for the request and make sure the dr. states all your co-morbidities and states that this surgery is **MEDICALLY NECCESSARY** to insure the best quality of life you deserve. Good Luck and much love sweetie. Hope this helps you out.........
   — TERRY L.

June 9, 2000
Prudential is one of the best for approving WLS. In my case, and others I've heard about, approval is usually within 5 minutes over the phone. BUT, this was before the Aetna buyout, so I hope it hasn't changed.
   — Leslie F.

June 9, 2000
Hi Bonnie, I have Prudential in Texas and they approved my VBG, no questions asked. But remember, it does not depend on the insurance carrier, it depends on the type of policy your company carries. It is up to the insured what will be covered. Hope this helps!
   — Laura P.

June 9, 2000
I have Prudential and they were very easy to deal with. Once my request got to the right person it was approved in a matter of hours. All policies are different, mine is Prudential POS, but I know people who have the HMO and nothing was different when it came to approval.
   — Linda M.

June 9, 2000
I have Prudential HMO in Kansas and had my approval in 3 days. I just had to keep bugging the Surgeons office to get my paperwork to them, but they responded right away with an approval. I thought they were great to work with and very helpful when I called and inquired if there was a WLS exclusion. You just need to call you customer service number on your card. Good Luck!
   — Shelli M.

June 10, 2000
I have Aetna PPO open choice. It bought out Prudential. It took them 5 weeks to do my approval but they were teriffic. I am 100+ overweight but have NO Co-Morbities at all. Not even 1. Very healthy for a fat person I am!!! Be patient they will come through for you!
   — Genevieve T.