I would be happy to help you or answer any questions you may have.

Mike,  I understand what you are saying.  But the thing with the exclusions at least for my plan, because I am state employee is at the state level.  I have spoke with BCBS of KS and they told me that they were not the ones that wrote the exclusion into the current contract, but the state has put the exclusion into our coverage.  Many times this is the case, because the insurance providers at least in this case aren't the villain and seem to understand now that WLS actually cuts costs over the long haul.  And most employers who have BCBS of KS may be in the same situation I am, not because of the carrier but because their employer doesn't understand the lifetime savings potential.  Exclusion for this proven lifesaving tool is discriminatory for those of us who are morbidly obese.  Denying coverage by mandating an exclusion is certainly not an option either.  If I were to go with mandating an exclusion or mandating coverage, I would certainly go with the latter.  Sorry, while I understand on one hand.  On the other I don't think a mandate on this issue wouldn't be such a bad idea, since overall the cost of treatment for an obese patient overtime is higher than the treatment of someone who undergoes this sugery.  I think even mandating coverage for those that meet certain criteria, rather than a blanket mandate would be an option too. But what do I know. Maybe I'm wrong.  :) All I know is that the only way I will have this surgery is if my insurance will pay for it.  And I don't think I should have to look for a job who has insurance who covers this surgery, just because my health plan doesn't, especially when I have a decent job that I like and prefer staying at. Chad

I had gastric by-pass and my insurance through United Health Care. I know that many of the larger employers in Topeka offer UHC. I was only out the cost of a hospital stay which under my plan is only $500 out of pocket for me. My insurance covers the rest... pretty good plan

Hi Too bad I  have a standing Tuesday night thing...I'd love to come meet you and pick your brains...my surgery is scheduled for July 31.   The airport is just sort of way out there all by itself and there's not much to do close, especially if you don't have a car handy.   I hope you find someone! Robin

Yipee!!!!! Congratulations!!! still waiting on my date