Insurance changes post-op

[KristieRerouted 24]

Have any of you changed insurance after surgery? Does an insurance that doesn't typically cover surgery cover aftercare after the surgery has already been done? I just got to thinking that the chances of me being with my current ins forever is slim to none and I'd like to know what my future holds with regards to insurance. If I switch insurance to one that doesn't cover surgery at some point then have issues (a stricture, leak or something else that is considered a risk from surgery for example) will I be screwed?? What about after care- like post-op appts to have Vitamin levels checked etc.?

[TurnThePage 220]

It is highly unlikely that an insurer will cover any services, tests or fees after the policy termination. You will have to be very careful to choose a new policy that picks up the costs---specifically for bariatric-related services, especially those tied to surgery done prior to the policy. (For example, a standard blood test may require 1-2 vials of blood, but a bariatric set can require 10 vials and many more tests. The costs of self-paying for test can be a couple thousand dollars, depending on where tests are done.) And make very sure you have it in writing from the insurance company! There is so much confusion in the insurance world right now. There's another post I just responded to where four calls have been made to the insurance company on an issue and they have gotten 4 different answers. One poster reported that her company sponsored insurance paid for WLS, but she just retired and the retiree version of the policy (part of her retirement package) specifically does NOT cover any costs related to an earlier bariatric surgery. Good luck and shop carefully!

[pear425 32]

I don't see why an insurance wouldn't cover things. I had my surgery 9 years ago and have had numerous insurances since then. Some good policies some really bad but I've never had anything denied. Once you have the surgery the aftercare is not connected.

[TurnThePage 220]

Pear, yes the aftercare can be connected to the bariatric surgery and they can refuse to cover it. Please see my previous post, just above yours.

[pear425 32]

Like I said I have never had a problem in 9 years. I had a revision 2 weeks ago and have completely different insurance then in 2005. Of course each policy is different but I, personally, find it unlikely that most insurances will not cover these medical costs. When you do have to get new insurance you should certainly check your coverage but this has been my experience. Also, not many people have the same insurance for the rest of their life.