lap band, will it ever be covered

[chinatrain99 0]

My insurance is Health Alliance. They cover RNY but not the lap band. Is there any insurance companies that cover the lap band? Does anyone know of any type of "push" to get the procedure covered. It's 1/2 the cost of the RNY and a lot safer. I would think insurance companies would jump at the opportunity.

[Chris S. - L.I. 0]

There are alot of companies that cover Lap Band. There is a Yahoo group called BandstersInsurance. Maybe you can get some info there.

[New Hope 37]

Did the ins. co. give you a reason why they cover RNY and not the Band?

[Guest batman362]

my husband worked for ford moter co. they only had two choices for us. HEALTH ALLIANCE PLAN and bLUE CROSS ppo. We had HAP and got no where with them. They wouldn't even give us the reason why they covered the GP and not the lap-band. Our lawyer told us that they are a self funded insurance and we would get no where in court sueing them. He said we couldn't win. so we switched to BCBS and they are covering it. Hoped it helped. Kat:banana :banana

[La_madam 20]

I know Blue Cross just started covering it in a few states of course not California but maybe it will start a trend when they see the success rate and Blue Cross will coever it nationwide..I was a self pay..I wanted this so bad and was not willingto haggle with them for 6-8 months to get approval..and I'm glad I didnt. 5 months out and I'm half way to goal. I'd probably still be haggling with my insurance company.

[BJSmith 0]

:thumbup::confused::ohmy: I am from British Columbia Canada.I have life threatening health issues. Does anyone know if the lapband is covered under such circumstances in this province? Even partial coverage would be a help. I no longer qualify for gastric bypass. I am pretty much housebound.

I tried calling the surgeon but had no reply & the phone is constantly busy when I phone the gov't medical insurance.

I need an answer before next Wednesday if anyone knows.