Changing insurance before fills

[Mikochan 0]

Has anyone changed insurance companies after surgery and before your first fluoroscopy fill?

I had my surgery under one insurance company (Cigna) but I am now changing to Blue Cross of California. I am wondering if Blue Cross will cover my fluoroscopy fill and any subsequent fills. Isn't lap band surgery a pre-existing condition?

I sure hope they cover the fills, because my doctor's office told me that the fluoroscopy fill is about $1,000 and the office fills are $500 each. My other choice is to keep Cigna by paying for COBRA at $500 per month.

Any help or advice would be appreciated!!

[laurenwhite82 0]

I hope someone answers this....I have asked before but no one seems to know! I will more than likely be in a similar situation. My office fills are much cheaper than that though....thats ridiculous!

[GaryB 0]

Micochan - I am not a Benefits Expert but I have worked in HR for many years. I recommend that you call Blue Cross and speak directly to a rep about pre existing conditions.

My thoughts are even though you changed insurance, the fills should be covered but possibly out of network... which could cost you a bit more... but not $500. Call Blue Cross...Good Luck.

[ccarter8219 0]

I agree with Gary B, call your insurance company. They will tell you if they even cover obesity surgery. Even though you have already have the surgery, the fills are considered part of that surgery, and they may be excluded. Is this an individual policy, or a group policy? That makes a difference. If if is a group policy, you should be able to get a certificate of credible coverage to waive your pre-existing timeframe. Good Luck!

[Mikochan 0]

Micochan - I am not a Benefits Expert but I have worked in HR for many years. I recommend that you call Blue Cross and speak directly to a rep about pre existing conditions.

Thanks for your input so far, everyone! I already called Blue Cross and either they are 1.) too busy and the recording says to call back later, or 2.) the rep doesn't know what she is talking about and makes "guesses" as to whether it is covered. One rep said, "I want to say that it is not covered..." which really doesn't give me a definite answer. "Is it or isn't it?" I ask. Then she says, "No, I don't think so." I know I should speak to a supervisor, but I just don't like calling them again and again.

You are right, I should just ask about pre-existing conditions in general. It seems like whenever I say "bariatric surgery" or "gastric band" I feel like they become discriminatory in tone (even though I know for a fact that the lap band is covered through the plan).

Btw, I am on a group policy through my husband's employer.