Self-Pay Insecurities

[jenplus5 0]

Hi everyone,

My insurance does not cover this surgery. I have gotten my arms around that I am going to pay for this, and that it is a good decision, health-wise. One of my remaining concerns, though, is that if the operation has complications or if there are any future health issues resulting from the band, insurance will not cover that as well. Now I feel like I'm playing Russian roulette with my health and my family's finances.

It's a fairly new procedure, but I'm guessing that I am facing a high chance of having future issues that will result in surgery to repair, replace or remove the band.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

Thanks!

Jen

[Melinco 1]

Hi everyone,

My insurance does not cover this surgery. I have gotten my arms around that I am going to pay for this, and that it is a good decision, health-wise. One of my remaining concerns, though, is that if the operation has complications or if there are any future health issues resulting from the band, insurance will not cover that as well. Now I feel like I'm playing Russian roulette with my health and my family's finances.

It's a fairly new procedure, but I'm guessing that I am facing a high chance of having future issues that will result in surgery to repair, replace or remove the band.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

Thanks!

Jen

Why would you think that there is a high chance of having future issues that would result in additional surgeries? Yes, there is a chance, but it isn't high. Unless you know you are bad about following instructions and don't think you can follow the recommended way of eating (and cutting out the things your doctor says to, like mine did with carbonated beverages).

Double check with your insurance company. While many won't cover the surgery itself, they often cover complications from it.

I am self pay and I decided that if something does happen, I will deal with it then. But for now, I'm taking control of my weight and the $15k I spent is a worthwhile investment in myself.

Good luck with your decisions.

[arthukd 1]

I am self pay also and had the same reservations. My sister had the surgery (insurance covered it for her) and hasn't had any complications. Also, insurance companies are starting to cover more and more procedures for obesity so who knows. 10 years from now, if you need to have the band replaced, it may be covered! I looked into having lapband over 2 years ago and when I found out insurance wouldn't cover it, I was devistated. Then I realized I could take pay for the surgery using the medical flex plan through my job. 1) the surgery was almost $2000 cheaper having it in Jan 2010 than it would have been in Sept 2007 AND taking out the $$ through the flex plan means the $12K surgery is only costing me $8K. (b/c I save income tax, SS tax, and medicare tax on 12K!!) I understand your concerns and you need to do what you feel comfortable with, but my advice is go for it!!!

[jenplus5 0]

Thanks for the responses!

I hadn't thought about by the time I need a replacement or fix that my insurance at that time could cover it. For that matter, even if I had insurance now, it might be the opposite in the future. I am also going to use my FSA account for this.

I think I just about cannot get this done soon enough!

Jen