Question:
Seeking Oregonians who have purchased insurance that approved and paid for WLS

I have found alot of individual policies in Oregon, and frankly, I need help. I would love to hear stories of people who have bought their own individual insurance policy, live in Oregon, and got approval from that insurance company. Which insurance company? How long ago? Which policy?    — rowaneagle (posted on May 19, 2003)

July 23, 2003
Well, now I know why not a single soul has answered my plea. I attending the informational session with Dr. Patterson yesterday (7/22/03) and was extremely impressed, she seems wonderful, knows what she is doing, and didn't seem as detatched as most surgeons are (at least the ones I met) I asked if anybody has purchased individual insurance and been able to have the surgery....NO, no and NO. :) I guess the insurance companies just aren't interested in paying for it unless your a group policy holder. To say the least, I am heartbroken. I am looking into getting it done overseas, but am very concerned about after care. If I could afford to swing a self pay for Patterson, I would in a heart beat.
   — rowaneagle

July 23, 2003
Brandi, I'm sorry to hear about your insurance issues. Dr. Patterson is wonderful. But many people self-pay in Mexico, where there are superb surgeons. Look into Dr. Ortiz, and check out the Bandsters mailing list at Yahoo for more help.
   — Maria N.