Hello, I have been researching various surgeons in Mexico that perform the LAP-BAND®® operation. I would like to have the surgery done in January 2010. I'm wondering if anyone out there has used their FSA/HSA funds to help pay for the surgery and if so, what dr. did you use? During open enrollment in November for 2010 benefits, I called the customer service line for ADP and the rep told me that it was covered, so I put in the full amount - $5000. I called back today to ask if I could use my card through paypal. She said I could not and that I would have to pay for the surgery up front and in order to get reimbursed I would need all invoices shown in $dollars as well as a letter from the doctor explaining that the surgery was a medical necessity. Well, I'm not dying, so it's not a necessity yet, but I'm not trying to wait until I get to that point. I was previously denied from my insurance because my BMI is only 39 and I do not have any co-morbidities. I am now resulting to self pay. I think this is ridiculous. Why does FSA pay for laser eye surgery when that's not a medical necessity, people can just wear glasses and contacts. Sorry, I'm just upset by the process that overweight people have to go through to get any help. Any information that you can share would be appreciated.

There are lots of things you can do to say its medical necessary. For instance, when you cough to you pee a bit? This is something they look at. Does diebets run in your family? How is your cholesteral? knees sore? Back problems? These are all things you can include as to why you are getting the surgery.

Your doc just has to say that it is needed for these reason. Trust me, the docs are smart about knowing what to say.

I did use my FSA card when I paid for mine. My insurance did cover part of it, I was out $1000 for my deductible and I used my card.

I had high cholesteral, my knees were sore (this was not documented on record) but my doc just said that in the letter. I also found out I had sleep apnea.

Have you been tested for that? You might have that and not even know it. Most people with a BMI of over 35 have it. Best wishes!

I am in the same boat that you are in. I assigned the full ammount of 5000 to my FSA account.

There is a way around it.... email me and I will let you know what I am doing.

Luminouslife424@yahoo.com Its sort of tricky and I don't want anyone to judge me.

LOLA