Question:
Has anyone had any experience with Medicare or Medicade in PA?

I'm considering the operation but don't want to get let down if there is no chance for approval. I'd like to know if there has been any persons who have had dealings with them and their outcome. I'm really excited about all this, hope my insuracne will cover me!! Thanks    — Renae D. (posted on July 16, 1999)

December 12, 2000
I am having my surgery done in Pittsburg. I am waiting for approval right now. I have Madicare first and then access second. According to my Dr. There is no problem with getting aproved. The only thing you have to have is a psychologial done. That can be hard, depending on who you see. I finally got through it. You don't have to be "normal" just well informed. So don't let it scare you off. Go for it!
   — Beth S.

November 22, 2002
11/22/2002 I just got approved for surgery with Medicare as my primary and Amerihealth as my secondary. I went to the Dr's on Oct 21 for consultation and by Nov 21st I had my approval with the first letter. To offer some advice to anyone who has these insurers, I would say this. 1.Have all of your comorbidities ,family health history and diet history printed out so you can share a copy with the surgeon. 2. Make copies of the above and ask the Dr to send that set out along with the request for approval. 3.Know your BMI and include this in the paperwork. 4. Make sure that have at least a 5 yr history of failed attempts at dieting. Have at least one dr supervised one too. 5. Have your Primary Care Physician write a letter of medical necessity and include this with the paperwork being sent to the insurance company. With this stuff to prove that this surgery will improve your health and quality of life , you should have no problem being approved.
   — cinnamongirl