Question:
Help, will my insurance cover this surgery?

Hi I am 31 years old and weigh 309lbs, 5'6" tall. I have high blood pressure, acid reflux and depression problems. Also I urinate on myself when I laugh or sneeze. I have United Healthcare for my insurance company. They told me that they don't cover gastric bypasses. Should I give up? I don't know what else to do. I have had a life long problem with my weight.    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 23, 2000)

August 23, 2000
Have you researched this website regarding your insurance company? Have you searched this website for peers in your state, seeing which insurance company they had? Have you considered paying for it yourself? Do you own your own home or do your parents? If so, you probably have equity built up against which you could borrow money for the surgery. Where there is a will, there is a way! Don't give up! You sound like the perfect candidate for the surgery.
   — Cindy H.

August 23, 2000
Keep trying. I was told by my insurance they would not cover the surgery. I went through with the pre-op testing and making an appointment with the surgeon and dietician. I also asked my PCP to compile a history of my health issues. His administrative office made a complete!!! listing of all my diets, failures, health problems and history. With all of this, U.S. Healthcare approved me in less than 30 days. Keep trying , compile your own list and push forward. Dr. Cooney 8-3-99 312 # Surgery 11-17-99 282# Today 170#
   — Diane B.

August 23, 2000
Never give up. Get different insurance, get a surgeon and medical doctors to write appeal letters, do whatever is neccessary. If you keep trying you should be able to get the surgery. Good Luck
   — Bruce B.

September 27, 2000
hey u dont give up. i have united health care ppo. they approved me. i just have surgery sept 18, 2000 Dont give up. FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT.
   — ms edwards B.

June 6, 2001
PFS Patient Financing may be an alternative. PFS offers loans to consumers for procedures that are not typically covered, or are under covered, by insurance. The goal at PFS is to make healthcare accessible and affordable. PFS can be reached toll-free at 888-737-3679. Ask for Sharon, extension 17; or John, extension 13; or, you may email John at [email protected]. Whatever you do, good luck; never, ever give up on your goal!
   — John B.

June 6, 2001
It depends on your individual policy. I have UHC and was approved over the phone. I was told by them that they dont cover the tummy tuck or reconstructive surgery at all. Yet, with letters of Medical Necessity from my PCP and surgeons, I was approved in 3 days. So what they probably mean is if it's not medically necessary, they wont cover it.. but it's worth looking into, for sure!!!! Good luck to you! http://www.mywls.com/discus
   — [Deactivated Member]