Self-pay, lapband, and Hiatal Hernia

Randi · September 9, 2006

I'm considering self-paying for the lapband. However, I've read posts by lapbanders who had a hiatal hernia repaired during surgery.

Are there any self-pay patients who unexpectedly had to have a hiatal hernia repair done during surgery? If so, was there an additional cost and how much? Did you have to pay it or did your insurance carrier pick up the bill for the hernia repair even though they wouldn't cover the actual lapband surgery?

Malice X Girl · September 9, 2006

I had one. I had no clue I had it, but yes I was self pay but no he never charged me more. Didn't even think about having insurance checked out about the hiatial hernia.

KelliW · September 9, 2006

I had a hiatal hernia repaired during surgery. I found out during recovery and there was no additional charge. Kelli

GayleTX · September 9, 2006

Good question to ask the surgeon!

My DS was approved by the insurance company yesterday for a surgery BUT the insurance clerk at the surgeon's office told him the insurance company changed their mind in about 20% of these surgeries AFTER the surgery (it's not wls) and the patient had to pay it themselves. That should be illegal!!!

Randi · September 9, 2006

Good question to ask the surgeon!
My DS was approved by the insurance company yesterday for a surgery BUT the insurance clerk at the surgeon's office told him the insurance company changed their mind in about 20% of these surgeries AFTER the surgery (it's not wls) and the patient had to pay it themselves. That should be illegal!!!

That does sound like it's bordering on illegal. If that happens, you may want to file an appeal!

BTW, your tag line is great!