Insurance Changes In The Near Future....suggestions?

kimmer37 · October 5, 2012

My husband recently changed jobs and isn't eligible for insurance until 90 days. We were able to get United Health from my employer for now. Although United Health said my plan does not cover lap band. I could switch to Kaiser in May but I'm not sure if it will cover lap band (I will ask before switching). My husband will be able to get BCBS of NJ (odd since we're in SW WA/Portland OR) in December through his contract company, but we're hoping for direct hire shortly after that in which case we'd change again to Aetna. I don't know if BCBS or Aetna will cover lap band or not. My question is.... should I try to get started with the process now or do I wait until we have the insurance stuff settled? I'm 220, BMI 35, with Diabetes 2, PCOS, and sleep apnea so I think I would be covered assuming the plan allows for it. Thanks for any feedback.

honk · October 5, 2012

Personally I would probably wait. At the very least I would make sure your current insurance will cover the misc preop tests of which there are many.

Not to be a downer but I do have experience being in HR regarding converting contractors to direct hire status. The contract the staffing angency has with the client can affect when the contractor is converted. For example some agencies allow a client to take someone on as a direct hire after a period of time say 12 weeks for free. Meaning no additional Fees paid to the staffing agency. Normally the agency has "buy out" schedule like such: First week of employment 20%, after 4 weeks 15%, etc. Many companies in order to avoid a buyout fee will wait until they can take the person for "free".

kimmer37 · October 6, 2012

Thanks, I appreciate your feedback! Yeah, I've been a contractor before too so I'm aware of the wait involved. We're just hoping it'll be sooner rather than later!