Liver Biopsy

[jhammer2 8]

I just heard from my insurance company (Aetna) about my preapproval for surgery. They have approved the gastric bypass itself, but declined the liver biopsy which is part of the surgery. My doctor said this could stop me from getting the surgery, even if I am willing to pay for the biopsy myself out of pocket.

This seems crazy to me. I am just wondering if anyone else has had this same problem and what the resolution was?

Thinking I may need to find another surgeon but I really like who I have chosen and want to say with him.

Jenna

[judyoz 240]

Why do you need a liver biopsy?

[zonetracy 53]

Yes, why would you need a liver biopsy? Or maybe why do they require one? if there is a medically necessary reason for it your insurance will likely pay, but not if the doctor just likes to do it. Also weird if he won't continue with the surgery even if you opt to pay for that piece yourself.

[jhammer2 8]

Apparently its just part of the surgery. I really have no idea. Are you guys post op?

[zonetracy 53]

Yes, i'm 5 weeks post op today

[jhammer2 8]

Great!

Well its good to know that there are docs out there that don't require it in case I need to switch.

How is everything going for you so far?

[zonetracy 53]

Looks like you're quite a ways from Oregon but my surgeon didn't require one. lol I'm feeling really good. Its a little tough to get in all my Protein and my Water but i try. My stomach muscles were the most painful and what was like i did way too many sit-ups for about 5 days. I still did things... it was just a little difficult to go from sitting to standing and vice versa.

Do you have a surgery date yet?

[jhammer2 8]

Not yet. I have to find out if they are going to take me first. I'm very happy to hear that there are docs out there that don't require it. I will certainly travel if I need to...although probably not all the way out to OR lol

[zonetracy 53]

You might start looking now so you are ready to go if you need one. Good Luck with all of that!

[judyoz 240]

I would inquire about why you need a biopsy. I have never heard of that.

[Babbs 14,680]

I haven't heard of having a liver biopsy unless they get in there and see something they need to biopsy? It's not typical with most surgeons, I do know that!

[jhammer2 8]

I found out this morning that my surgeon IS going to be able to go ahead with the surgey and just exclude the liver biopsy. Soooooo happy!!!!

I have a few more hoops to jump through, but at least I'm one step closer.