Question:
Has anyone had any dealings with Medicare?

I am concerned with my medicare, because they will not give approval until after the surgery, is this normal??? I have Triocare standard as a secondary. Any info would be great. Thanks cya    — Patti W. (posted on May 15, 1999)

May 14, 1999
I don't know specifics, but when I was in the hospital having my RNY, there was a lady who had had her's the same day as me, that was on Medicare and she told me they were paying for it. She had two sister's that had done the same thing on medicare, but I don'have their names. Good luck.
   — JAN C.

May 15, 1999
Hi Patti, The way it was explained to me was the same as to you. My Dr told me NOT to worry as it is definately medically necesary. I have a BMI of 64.3 with arthritis. And it is up to him to write the letter to Medicare, and he has lots of practice in writing the letters so that Medicare will see eye to eye with him. (even if they don't approve, I am on disability, hence the Mecicare, then I will make payments for the rest of my life...it will be worth it.) But honestly I'm Not worried about approval. Dr Thirlby's office Mgr says Medicare usually always pays!
   — Angel G.