Question:
If you self-pay for initial WLS, does insurance cover complications?

I plan to have WLS even if I have to borrow the money. My financial concern regards whether insurance companies (mine is ODS)who refuse initial WLS surgery coverage can refuse to pay for complications and/or follow-up monitoring and treatment resulting from this "elective surgery". Does anyone have experience with this situation?    — Tom B. (posted on June 2, 1999)

June 2, 1999
Before you jump into paying for your operation, submit the request to the insurance company. Have your bariatric surgeon submit it as a RNY procedure, due to complications of obesity. Many people have had their operation covered even though the procedure was excluded from the policy. No insurance company can refuse you a LIFE SAVING TREATMENT. If your bariatric surgeon can write a compelling letter indicating this surgery is necessary to prolong your life, then your insurance may cover it.
   — Deborah L.

June 20, 1999
My insurance denied me and I paid out of my pocket. My insurance said they would not cover complications directly related to WLS since it was an elective surgery according to them. I had zero complications and everything went fine.
   — Donna D.