Question:
Anthem BCBS HMO & Panni (tummy tuck )

Hi, need help went to the PS today for the 1st visit she told me that she felt that Ins (anthem) would pay for a Panni, but not sure how much she sent it in as medicaly nesssity with back pain, rashes, hang belly also took photos the chiropractor will send a letter also they gave me a price list Surgeon fee $3900.00 Garment fee $50.00 Facility fee $900.00 Anesthesia $850.00 Total $$5700.00 and said i would have to pay most of it not sure i hope Anthem will pay all but Co-PAY thanks for any help    — christina B. (posted on August 30, 2004)

August 30, 2004
Hi I have anthum, and I also had Dr. Grasee, she is great! I am 4 days tt/w 2 hernia repair, and muscle tightening. I was approved because my pcp also gave a letter of med necessity, and I wrote one too, with all the problems I was experiancing. Everyone is differant, and I had lost around 120#, I think you need to have lost at least 100# and maintained. She told me the same so its all up to the insurance. St. Vincents womens hospital is wonderful and the care is excelant. I was approved in 2 weeks, but surgery was scheduled with en 4 weeks. Good luck and fell free the write if you have any questions. Rosemary
   — wizz40

August 30, 2004
I have Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield and they denied my panni surgery. I have a hernia and wanted the panni and hernia done at the same time. Blue Cross said the panni was strictly cosmetic and I called my pcp for a referral and her office said she wouldn't send a letter because she felt the panni surgery was cosmetic, too. Now I don't know what to do. I hate the thought of having to pay, but it looks like I might end up having to. I have rashes due to the panni and I can't stand constantly applying ointment and worrying about the odor. Best of luck to you...
   — Marilyn C.