I'm kind of upset.

Rebecca1979 · November 4, 2005

I called BCBS today (my provider) and they don't cover Lapband... I am soo disappointed. They cover gastric bypass though. What am I going to do?

I don't have money to pay out of pocket?!

gordonfamily3 · November 4, 2005

Rebecca hang in there...maybe it is something they will change for next year. If you are using Dr. Bauman I think he has be honored by BCBS so don't give us just yet talk to the Dr. sometimes they have ways around these things.

ladysplenda · November 4, 2005

They told me the same thing BUT THEY COVERED IT.What BCBS do you have?My BMI is 35.6 I am diabetic. Find out what they reqiuire for gastric bypass approvel. My requires several attemps to lose weight.Six months of doctor supervised nutrition counseling and a Pysc evaluation. Go ahead and see your lapband doctor.Do this and apply they will turn you down. Then call and ask for a manager.I did this and I did not even have to file a appeal.They had a meeting and saw that other BCBS were covering it .The worst that can happen is that you have done everything that they ask for gastric bypass.You could do that only as a last resort.Good luck

butterfly14 · November 4, 2005

I was banded on Oct, 25th in Michigan and I have BCBS. They did cover the surgery but the criteria was pretty rigid. Don't give up hope!

the best me · November 4, 2005

Don't give up Rebecca. I have BCBS of NC and it has Lap Band specifically excluded, but I didn't fight. I paid cash and went to Mexico. That's not the path for everyone. If you have the patience and perseverence, start down your lap band road and see where it takes you. You may very well make it!

Meet all the criteria for RNY and know that it may be frustrating but keep trying. It's time they quit excluding the band. You go girl!!