Paula, The only real thing you can do right now is file an appeal. If the policy has an exclusion, there's not much you can do. However, I would specifically ask for a copy of the policy and see what it states for the treatment of obesity. My insurance doesn't cover any drugs, but did cover surgery. Like I said, it's all in the wording of the policy. Have you spoken with the folks at St. Pat's? I'm pretty sure that they have a medical loan situation in place for just such things. Where were you going to try to have your surgery? I think most hospitals, etc. have ways of getting medical loans. I'm sorry I couldn't help much, but I would definitely look into these things. Linn

6+ months ago John Alden Ins. Denied my claim. BMI of 42, extremely high Triglycerides, very low "good" cholesterol, and type two diabetes. On top of that I now have sleep apnea and I am on a Cpap machine, I have Neuropathy in my feet. I am on 8 types of meds. (Thats 8 consistant monthy co-pays approx. $300). Not including the Cpap machine payments, doctor and lab co-pays. etc. You would think the insurance company would approve a sugery that could elliminate all their costs PER MONTH due to problems ALL related to weight. Has anyone had the same problems? What to do? I have been researching my next steps. Do I hire an attorney? Has anyone here? What are your results? 28 years old, mother of 2 - wife of nine years and lately I have been looking into the "black hole" is what I call it. Not knowing if these diseases (morbid obesity) and diabetes is going to finish me off before my oldest graduates the 8th grade. I have thought and researched this surgery for almost a year now. Attempting to decide if this is right for me. Now that I know it could very CHANGE my medical problems PERMINATLY - I am finding it VERY hard to believe after all the information out there on WLS and the effects of it - that the ins. compnay wouldn't want this for someone in my place........ A N Y advise from ANY one would help! THANK YOU MUCH! Paula ---- PS... On a side note. I KNOW this sugery isn't a FOR SURE cure. BUT - there is a chance. 13 years ago April 10th - my grandmother who suffered from the same problems as I (minus sleep apnea) - died. I know the ending if I keep on this track, I want to try another....

That's great information! I hope that everything works out for you Summer. Don't give up the fight...

Good Luck Kimmer I wish you very well and hope your recovery is fast, as well as your weight loss. summer

I have been researching this procedure for over a year. I know which surgeon I want. I cannot get insurance because of my weight (338 lbs). I don't have the money to pay for it myself. My family can't or won't pay for it. My dad has tried to come up with ways to help me pay for it, but has not had any luck. My mom will be selling her house soon, but will be using the money to pay off a truck, a car, etc. I have tried to get loans, to no avail. Does anyone out there have any ideas on what I can do. I have begged the hospital in Great Falls several times to let me have the surgery and pay for it after, ( I think they are still laughing at me). There is just no hope for someone without insurance. I am self-employed and so I have no insurance coverage. If anyone has any ideas for me, please let me know. [email protected]