Question:
How long after insurance coverage starts should I wait before trying to get approval
I started a new job this past Monday. My insurance will kick in by this Monday. How long should I wait to start the process for lap band approval. I am very anxious to get started, and the ins. policy says no waiting period for pre -existing conditions. Does that give me the green light to proceed,even though I am a new employee? — ncjackrussell2 (posted on February 2, 2008)
February 2, 2008
I would give your Employer and the insurance company a few months rather
than rush in and request the coverage information. You can call the
insurace company and inquire if they cover WLS. Also some insurance
companies will cover if your have other complications like Heart Problem,
High Blood Pressure, etc. Focus on finding a doctor and attending a
support meeting or two to get a better understanding of what you will be
required to do besiges just have the surgery.
— William (Bill) wmil
February 2, 2008
Hi, Every year at my company we have to pick new insurance. We can keep
what we have or change. I chose the only one they offered that covered
weight loss surgery. We pick in November and it takes effect on 1/1 I
called a week later. I pay 250.00 a month for my inurance for my family.
So I figure they work for me. She asked me my weight and height and said i
was covered and assigned me a case worker. I then went to my pcp and got
him in my corner. I told them I have been reading up on this for almost a
year which is true. I have a apt with the surgon 2/15. I have been with
the company for 10 years though. I have vacation time and 3 months of fml
if i need it. Will you have any time off yet. I would call and see if it
is covered and who is in network. Last year they had an exclusion on the
policy. I am planning on leaving the company as soon as i get this. I
thought i would let them give me a little present first.
— Jesses_girl
February 2, 2008
Shirley made a good point regarding time off. You may also want to look
into hospital indemnity insurance -- it pays you for each day your are in
the hospital. I have that through State Farm. Don't feel you have to
wait; I'm sure your insurance company have an internet site and access the
information from there and see what their requirements will be prior to
going to your PCP.
Good luck
— the7thdean
February 2, 2008
I say why wait? You have the green light. I was in a similar situation.
My insurance started on day one and I knew they covered WLS. By the time
you find a doctor, attend a seminar, get a consultation, and do every thing
that insurance wants before you have the surgery it will take several
months. You need to check about time off. Will you have paid leave? How
soon can you miss work with out being reprimanded? You will probably be
off 2-3 weeks. Good Luck!!
— mary_rn
February 3, 2008
I started a new Insurance in Sept Had my consultation in Jan and Im
scheduled for surgery in March. I only waited that long because Jan was the
first appointment my surgeon had. But I made the call right away. Besides
you don't apply for ins approval until you have done all the pre-testing.
Book your consultation... good luck on your journey.
— Rachelena
February 4, 2008
My husband had start a new job and It took 3 months to get new insurance,
but we went right ahead and requested approval from the new insurance which
was atena and got approval with in a week. It's a process but well worth it
in the end. Good Luck to you!!!!!
— Franchesca
February 4, 2008
I agree with everything that everyone is telling you. The first thing the
crossed my mind as I was reading your post is taking time off for surgery.
I was out 3 weeks with my lapband and 5 weeks when I switched to the RNY a
year later. Also, I am sure you did your homework but remember most
insurances now state, one weight loss surgery per lifetime, so make sure
that the band is what you truly want before you jump in. I too like the
others would wait a few months, it will pass quickly and less jeopardy of
losing your job. Good luck with your decision.
— noboat4u
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