Hello - and a question about CIGNA Insurance

[Lukhvir 0]

Hi Everyone

I'm new to this site and just wanted to introduce myself and say hello to everyone.

I am a member of a UK based forum and the link for this forum was posted by a fellow member.

I'm 25 years old, 5ft 9 with a BMI of 42.

I've been overweight all my life but put on more weight after having my son 2 1/2 years ago. I didn't actually put much weight on during the pregnancy...it all piled on after!!

late last year i started suffering from muscle spasms in my lower back and my BP went up....and so did my weight. I'm at my heaviest now and have gone from overweight to morbitly obese.

I have health cover with BUPA and also cover with CIGNA through my work. BUPA paid for my consultations, but both refuse to pay for surgery.

I have seen a few posts here where members have had their surgery covered by CIGNA. It is so unfair the UK based insurance companies take a different view to weight loss surgery in comparison to many American based companies.

Is there many members who have had their surgery funded/refused by CIGNA?

Before my consultation i was pretty sure on having the RNY bypass as the weight loss seemed greater initially and i though of this as a more permanent long term surgery. But after speaking with my surgeon, he thinks i'd do fine with the band, and i met so many people who have lost lots of weight with the band. I am going to follow the surgeons advise because i do like the idea of 2 years down the line of still having control over restriction - where as i understand the restriction lessens over time with the RNY.

But the only thing still niggling me is the longer term aspect with the band. I read of many people needing revision surgery after complications/problems afew years down the line.

Well i'm still battling it our with my Insurance companies and have sent letters of appeal.

I really do hope they change their minds, otherwise i will have to wait afew years on the NHS waiting list. I will keep you updated.

I'm still reading through all the posts trying to take in as much information as possible!!