Question:
I have only had BCBS of NC (PPO) since Jan 05, will they cover me?

I got married last year and switched insurance carriers. I'm about WLS being seen as for a pre-existing condition. I tried getting in contact with them but never got a staight answer. I know that they cover WLS.    — Heather Y. (posted on May 17, 2005)

May 17, 2005
It depnds. Before you 'switched' were you under another carrier?? If so, then yes they will (as long as you were covered a year on the other plan, and didnt wait more than 60 days (could be 90) insurance is portable. You only have the year pre-x if you NEVER had insurance prior to BCBS. If you didnt you'll have to wait. Be sure to call and have them 'bridge your time' with the other carrier.
   — star .

May 17, 2005

   — RebeccaP

May 17, 2005
I agree with the first poster. In my state, it's not pre-existing as long as you were covered by another insurance 63 days prior to getting the new insurance. Find out what the rules are in your state. Good luck! nrd
   — Nicki F.

May 17, 2005
Hi Heather, I worked in the industry for almost 10 years so I write this with experience. If your company covers WLS and you have no pre-ex clause, you should be fine. If your company has a pre-ex clause but you haven't been being treated for obesity (usually for 3 months) then you should be fine. If your policy has a pre-ex clause (like a 3/12 pre-ex) that means that if you have been being treated for obesity within the past 3 months, they will require 12 months "waiting" before they will cover treatment. HOWEVER, one "loophole" that you may be able to get through, is if you are "midway" through your treatment, you can request a "continued treatment" for your obesity. Meaning if you've had any of your bloodwork or testing, you are currently midway of treatment. Good luck to you. Laurie
   — l P.

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