Pay Outright, Wait for PH or APRA?

magiklcrab · December 10, 2010

Hi all,

I've been thinking off and on about getting Lap Band for the last 2-3 years. Last year I went so far as to organise private health insurance in preparation. However, being clever me (and being time-poor while I was doing the online signup) I managed to go for the level of cover which DOESN'T cover this surgery at all.

I contacted my health care providor and they said I can move up to the next level which does, but that I will have to wait another 12 months to be covered as it's a pre-existing condition (I woke up obese this morning, I swear!). I spoke to three different people/managers and they all assure me of the same thing. I've called other health funds - even if I transfer to their top level with existing health cover, it's a minimum 12 month wait.

My options as I see them are:

1. Wait the 12 months, save money for the out of pockets.

2. Get a personal loan for the cost (approx $15,000 through Circle of Care in Adelaide)

Option 1 doesn't seem like an option for me - my family history and ongoing health issues are making me more and more aware that I need this sooner rather than later.

Option 2 would likely be the easiest. However, to be frank, I don't like the idea of it, given I was planning on attempting to buy my first home within the next 3 years.

So ... thoughts.... opinions? I really don't know what would be best for me right now - obviously getting the surgery.

EDIT: Removed some text - just checked my super balance and it's MUCH lower than I thought and wouldn't cover the costs... and then there were 2 options!

Nikki95 · January 6, 2011

Oh that sux! Sorry that happened! Hmmmm I think I would wait the 12 months coz that is a lot of money to pay...then there's the followup that still has to be paid for that PH would help... Omg I dunno if that happened to me I would also feel totally frustrated and definitely consider just paying for it. Have u enquired about getting on the public health list? I had my a ppt and was scheduled for 1 year (my PH required wait) and a girl was In the waiting room who said she just got a message from the dr office offering her a vacancy thru the public Health system and that was fate waiting 4 months. FREE!