Question:
In MD, CareFirst BCBS is merging with WellPoint California....Anyone have WellPoint?

I am a pre-op waiting on approval with Carefirst bCBS in Md. We just got a letter that they are merging with Well Point California (a for profit insurance group). Does anyone have any knowledge of them, their stance on WLS, or have you been through a merger and can give some insight? They said it should be fully accomplished by 18 mos. Many thanks!    — AJC750 (posted on January 29, 2002)

January 29, 2002
i have bcbsga that is a part of wellpoint. most policies cover this surgery as long as it is medically necessary. your blue cross and blue shield agency primarily administers your policy for your group or employer. this merger should not change that policy. wellpoint is basically just taking over and managing the corporation, not the insurance policies. let me know if i can help any more. my email address is on my profile.
   — Kim L.

January 29, 2002
Well you are in good luck for living in Md. Maryland passed a law last year that went into effect Oct 1, 2001. The law states that any insurance provider providing service in the state of Md can not deny coverage for WLS if it is medically neccessary. My insurance policy has a written exclusion to the surgery and I thought I would be in for a long battle. But with the letter to the insurance company that my doctor recommended I send I sent a copy of the law. If you want a copy of it to send with your letter to your insurance company email me at [email protected] and I will be more than happy to send you a copy.
   — Diane Rhoads