Question:
Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO Nebraska and the Duodenalswitch

Please contact me if you have had or is having the Duodenalswitch and have been approved for this procedure. How easy is it? [email protected]    — Michelle A. (posted on September 11, 2000)

September 12, 2000
I do know that some surgeons used the open or lap distal RNY procedure codes for the BPS/DS. I talked to one surgeons office bemoaing the fact that my insurance didn't approve it and she told me that most don't but it wasn't a problem. This surgeon simply accepts the lesser payment for the easier RNY surgery. Maybe you should check how your surgeon bills it. Good luck, the BPS/DS sounds like a really nice surgery.
   — Marilyn M.

September 14, 2000
I know that BC/BS units in different states handle things differently, but I thought I'd let you know that I just got my approval for the DS with an out of state surgeon through Mountain State BC/BS PPO (West Virginia's BC/BS). I was approved within 1 week of my surgeon's submission of my letter of medical necessity. I had already written a lengthy letter about my reasons for wanting this surgery, but it apparently wasn't necessary. I encourage you to seek the surgery that you feel is best for you and not base your decision on whether or not your insurance is likely to cover it. Each insurance company is different, and each particular type of policy within the same company is different. Fight for what YOU want and take it one step at a time. I hope your approval comes as easily as mine did!
   — Deborah B.