Tricare and meeting requirements

[Ourlifecomplete 17]

So I keep seeing that Tricare does not cover sleeve, but know a few ladies who have had it or are getting it. I think it is because they are doing it at a mtf. Anyone get tricare to let them go to a MTF that is not where they are stationed? My bmi is only 37 but I have PCOS, Pre-diabetic, and back issues. Im wondering if they will cover me at all..

[wantingabetterlife 364]

I can't be 100% sure but I don't think Tricare is involved with the MTFs at all. They are independent and I believe you do it through them alone (MTF). Care at the MTF isn't paid for through Tricare and they don't have to give an approval. Tricare only applies when you are being referred to somewhere other than a MTF. That was my understanding and what I have been told by my PCP. The closest one to me was in Jacksonville and they required you live so close so that you could attend classes, appointments, etc. So it wasn't an option for me. That's why I did self pay.

Hope you are able to work through it and find the answers you need. Good luck to you!

[Ourlifecomplete 17]

Thanks! Yeah the closest to me when We move in April will be Keesler. I have a friend I can stay with for appointments ect if they are willing! Guess ill have to call and find out. Can I ask how much did it cost you out of pocket?

[wantingabetterlife 364]

Of course, my surgery was $4400 and my flight was $363 (had to fly east coast to west coast). I cannot complain because I never could have afforded here ($15,000-20,000). I had a wonderful experience and wouldn't change a thing, except I wish I would have done it sooner!

[Ourlifecomplete 17]

Thats not bad. Where did you go?

[wantingabetterlife 364]

I went to Dr. Elias Ortiz with A Lighter Me. They were fabulous and it was a great experience. I was scared to death because I went alone. But I met my sister sleevers in the van at the airport and they are awesome. We went through it all together and are still close!

[Ourlifecomplete 17]

Oh so in Mexico. Wow that would scare me to death!

[wantingabetterlife 364]

It was not bad at all. Actually, it was a wonderful experience. They do so much Medical Tourism down there that they have got it to a science. You would be amazed at the number of people showing up for WLS, plastic surgery, etc. My only other options were to have lapband (didn't want it), complete gastric bypass (was scared of being malnourished in a few years), or do nothing.

[Ourlifecomplete 17]

Yea I understand not wanting to wait till tricare covers it or doing one of the other types. I had hubby call MTF at Keesler and they said that it will be up to the surgeon if he wants to take me on as a patient. First I have to get my PCM to refer me. But before that I have to move lol. Right now im in Germany but we move in April! I really want this done so im trying hard to get things done fast here so we can move already!!! Waiting sucks!

[sarahbeth3569 95]

Tricare surprisingly isnt affiliated with MTFs. Im going through BAMC in San Antonio TX and theyre self referral. So it would be up to the MTF to decide if they will operate on you if you live further away than say..100 miles? I would call your nearest MTF around your area or neighboring state and see if you could attend their seminar atleast.

[Ourlifecomplete 17]

Oh I know that now Sarahbeth3569. Im going to try keesler. My best friend is there and it is closest one to where we will be.