Nervous..

[krissy1189 1]

I am half way through my 6 month diet. I've done all the needed appts and support groups. Now the only thing I'm nervous or scared is can I afford it financially. I have my own insurance blue shield of ca ppo. I don't go to the Dr much so I haven't meet my deductible this year and I guess my insurance only covers 70%.. Is anyone else in my shoes or have been and can tell me options I have..

[2Big2Skate 328]

Yea I'm in the same boat. My portion will be significant at the end. But what's the price of an additional 20 years of healthy life? Of seeing my grandkids? Of being able to do the things I want?

The way I look at it, I took loans to take risks like buyin a car or paying for college. And they had a less certain payout on the far side. If I have to, I'll make payments on the sleeve. Ask your surgeons "go to" assistant (likely the one that handles the insurance submittals) about payment options or financing. I bet they can point you in the right direction.

[kathp 81]

I'm on my own (no family) so my deductible was met by the bloodwork needed as part of the pre-work, and by the psych visit pre-op. Then the rest hit my "annual out of pocket" max. I think together that was $3600. Check into what your annual out of pocket max is, and then look at what it means. My "max" only means that I don't pay co-insurance any more this year, but I still pay co-payments. So I still pay to see doctors, but not for bloodwork until next year. I was kind of bummed that "annual out of pocket max" doesn't mean "all out of pocket" but that would be too easy. I hope this helps you figure out what questions to ask.

[LisaDM 194]

I have concerns too. My insurance has a $1000 copay then covers 100% after that. Still a lot of money to me. But worse, is I have to take extended time off work because I can't work with a lifting restriction. I have short term disability but it is far from my usual pay. I know times will be tough, but I will save on gas money. Plus we eat out a lot usually so I will save with not doing that! I know that it will save money and my health in the long run so it is worth it to me. Maybe try to put money aside whole you get through the 6 month wait period. Hopefully you won't have to take much time off work for it. Good luck!!