Question:
Question for those on SSI or Disability..

I am just wondering if anyone out there who is on disability have been approved based on obesity? I know it's a really personal question but I have bipolar and morbidly obese and am applying for SSI and Disability. I am hoping to get Medicare as they will pay for the operation. Thanks for any and all help.    — Jenifer S. (posted on May 18, 2001)

May 18, 2001
Yes, your medicare through disability and SSI does cover it as long as you are considered morbidly obese. My neighbor lady had it three years ago and that is how hers got paid for. Even medical assistance and the minnesota care pays for it in the even that a dr. sends the letter saying it is medically necessary.
   — paula B.

May 18, 2001
I believe that medicare will cover if medically necessary. If you are just now applying for disability, medicare doesn't become effective until you have been on disability for 2 years.
   — [Anonymous]

May 19, 2001
SSI comes with Medicaid insurance right from the start; Social Security disability comes with Medicare after 29 months (two years of being disabled + a five month waiting period). Both insurance programs cover medically necessary WLS for the morbidly obese. To qualify for either SSA or SSI disability benefits, you must be able to show (from your medical records) that your illness (MO + any comorbidities) reduces your ability to do normal functions so severely that you cannot do ANY type of work -- even entry-level unskilled (ie minimum wage) jobs performed sitting down. Good luck.
   — Linda B.

May 19, 2001
i'm on ss disability now for depression but have in ins thru my husband. you can get medicare after 2 yrs. low income ss you can get medicaid right away good luck
   — KMR R.

April 25, 2002
I think a lot depends on what state you're from. I was approved for SSI within 3 months and was put automatically on open coupon medicaid. I had to show that I was no longer able to do my trade do to my obesity for a period of 1yr. medicaid does pay for this surgery but you have to do all of their requirements and show all the documentation as requested. Reading what others have said about their approvals and what they've had to go through, it sounds like medicare is one of the easier to get approval through.
   — Mark L.

May 17, 2002
I know this is not a new question page, but I just saw it. I am on SS disability and SSI. I have Medicare and Medicaid. I have found that Medicare does not pre aprove. You have to have the surgery and then ask for them to pay. Still proving it medically necessary. And, Medicaid will not pay anything until Medicare does. I am still looking for a surgon who does not want a big payment from my pocket up front because of the way Medicare does things. That is the hardest part. PS. I have BMI 41 and many comorbilities! PSS. Sorry very tired, bad speller.
   — sweetglow