Question:
Has anyone in Oklahoma had Vocational Rehab pay for gastric bypass surgery?

I have been approved for voc. rehab. But, my counselor told me that gastric bypass is not an approved surgery. I have done research and found where voc. rehab has paid in other states, I just can't find out about OK. I was told to appeal it, but I don't know how to go about doing this. Please, help. Shonda    — Shonda C. (posted on October 4, 2004)

October 5, 2004
I have not heard of anyone getting the state to pay for wls. It is still considered cosmetic. I doubt you will have much luck appealing, but still you could give it a try. Also, why not write to your state representative and send along letters from your drs. to back up the need for wls. I t wouldn't hurt and it might help. Good luck.
   — bubbleboo K.

October 5, 2004
The primary vocational rehabilitation (VR) services are counseling and guidance with job placement. Other services compensate for, correct or prevent disability-based barriers to employment. Can you prove that your morbid obesity is preventing you from getting empolyment or maintaining employment? Do you have any comorbidities such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, etc.? I would appeal. I have heard of people getting Voc-Rehab in other states to pay for surgery but it's all been tied into their ability to be employed or stay employed. Good luck!
   — Shayna T.

October 6, 2004
I am going through Texas Rehab for mine and they have approved several(mine is up for approval/denial). I am also going through Advocey Inc. Advocey helps people who need assistance with different services they specialize in helping disabled individuals but have lawyers there for people going through Rehabilitation commision. I am going through TRC because both insurances will not pay for surgery and because I could lose my job if my health gets worse which is due to MORBID OBESITY. Contact your operator in oklahoma and ask for an Advocey Inc. I found out about them through a ladies profile. GOOD LUCK you can read my profile and maybe it will give you an idea of what i have gone through with TRC and Advocey. Since I went with Advocey a lot has been done...
   — mea