I was approved then...

Hello Everyone,
I made the decision to get WLS... Found a surgeon after meeting a few, jumped through the hoops, saw a shrink, hell I even drunk the chalky stuff!

After all of this my PPO ( Anthem/ BS BC) approved me  !!!

After getting the notification from my doctor"s office I was told that my insurance does not cover a surgical assistant, therefore I need to bring in 1767 in a money order or cashier check to my pre-op appointment!

Is this regular practice? I fell like I was mislead- Please Advise

I would call your insurance company and find out if they can recommend a doctor that works without an assistant,  My doctor didn't us one, and if he did, I didn't have to pay for it, I had blue cross PPO and it was done 3 years ago.  I did have to pay for my part of the hospital bill and something like 600 bucks to my doctor for post op support, which was a waste for me, but other than that, that was all.

I hope it works out for you,

Diane

Thanks Diane-

After reading all of the post I'm going to ask more questions. I am even going to look at a few doctors and ask them more direct questions. I just can't hand over the cash without first looking at my options.
Thanks Again-
Jacque

Argggggggggggggggggh! How insensitive of them. I got a call the day before surgery saying I had a copay. Fortunately, it was a much smaller amount, but still, their timing can suck. I would file a grievance with the insurance group, maybe light a fire under their hairy backsides. Best of luck to a safe and successful procedure.

I think they take advantage of people in my situation because they know how bad I want it. I plan to follow-up and ask plenty of questions. I have a tentative date in January but the option of exploring my surgical options is becoming more appealing...
Thanks
Jacque

NOt uncommon practice. Sorry to tell you.

Good morning,

There is something wrong with this picture.  My suggestion, call the California State Department of Managed Health Care, they oversee the insurance companies, here is their toll free help number, 1-888-466-2219.  Here is a link to their website as well: http://www.dmhc.ca.gov/dmhc_consumer/br/br_default.aspx

I had Blue Shield and didn't have to pay a dime and it was done at a UCSF.  Good luck and keep pushing, you'll be successful.  Remember the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

Hugs,
Barb

Barb you are the best...
I know that it can't be right considering they where not forward with the request. I love your passion, thanks for all of the information.

I have Anthem/Blue Cross and our doctors also work with a PA. We apid 2500 up front, but they told us that at the very beginning of the process. The PA helps the doctors in surgery and he was the one who did several of my follow up visits.

nancy

I've never heard of this, but I would talk to your insurance company and find out what can be done, or see if you can get a different surgeon.