Question:
Any changes in BCBS written exclusion in 2003?

My BCBS has the written exclusions for WLS for Morbid Obesity. Has anyone heard if they have made any changes in this exclusion recently? Why have they quit covering it?    — TONJUA A. (posted on May 12, 2003)

May 12, 2003
This exclusion was put in your policy by your employer. I now work for my gastric byass surgeon and do all of the insurance approvals. I have seen patients that have exclusions go to their employer and get that exclusion taken out so they can have surgery. Unfortunately, sometimes patients have to fight for this surgery!! Good Luck!
   — Mandybub

May 12, 2003
I have BCBS of GA PPO it's an individual plan , and I had a very specific exclusion to this surgery. I talked to the insurance company and she told me it was excluded but if I could prove medically necessary then they would have to pay for it. I remembered her exact words, I was ready to give up and not even try the insurance. But I'm glad that I didn't . I was approved first letter in 10 days. Surgery on 1/17/03. Best wishes:)!!!
   — Kimmie C.