More in the saga of my insurance....

I haven't updated everyone in a while after the huge debacle last month with my appeal hearing, thought it was time. I've been looking into all sorts of options and seeing what I can do next. Finally decided to file a complaint with the State board of insurance and see what happens. I am, believe it or not, still using my lawyer - the fact that I had paid him already and he was more than ready to redeem himself was the main reason why I stuck with him. We'll see how it goes. At this point I'm not sure what I will do if it's denied again - I have thought about calling the ACLU or the National Association for Obesity to see if they have ever done a lawsuit for something like this. I am just so indignant that so many people have to put up with this crap from their insurance company that I just might be willing to fight them all in whatever way I can. It's almost a moral issue for me at this point. Despite wanting to fight, I've got to admit that I've been pretty depressed. The other day I could barely get out of bed and tears have been pretty common. It's been a year and a half of this and I'm just tired. I just want to feel better. That's it for me - we'll see what happens. Thanks for all your support everyone - I haven't felt like I have been supporting everyone else much, hoping to get back to my old self soon and be a little more encouraging for all of you. Pam

Hey Pam, Theres not a person on this board that feels left out because you havent been on here alot. We totally understand that you have alot of things going on right now and we are there for you reguardless. I cant amagine how you must feel but I can say one thing. You havent give up and thats the most important thing. You dont worry about not supporting us right now. You need it first and formost. So just a line or two to let you know we are thinking about you and cry all you want. They say its good for ya lol.... Hugs Marge

Big Hugs to you Pam!

Pam, this is probably a stupid question, but are you stuck with that particular insurance, or does your employer offer options? I have heard stories where some people went to the person in HR who dealt with the insurer and got them involved, sometimes successfully. I'm sure the ACLU won't take the case, as obesity isn't a protected class in Colorado with regard to discrimination. Did you investigate whether Dr. Chae has a package plan for self-pay folks? We'll figure something out for you, don't despair! Kix

Thanks Kix, and thanks everyone else. I have definitely been in a bit of a pity party lately, need to shake myself out of it. It certainly does help to have this board! Kix, my employer has just one insurance plan - we only have 50 employees and it's a church so a bit smaller than many places. Nice thing is they are totally supportive, just can't do anything. I did talk to an insurance lawyer and he told me that since I work for a religious organization we don't fall under the Hipaa law, which could actually be a good thing - easier to file a suit and insurance companies can't hide behind this law, which I guess they tend to do. Funny that a law that was suppose to protect consumers is actually protecting the insurance companies more. Dr. Chae does have a self pay plan, but I hesitate to do that. When BCBS made the decision to deny, their letter said they would only pay $1500 for the surgery AND any complications that arise. That really makes me nervous and to be honest, the thought of going into that much debt scares me. I have spent the past 2 years trying to get my finances on track and I am FINALLY at a place where I can actually pay my bills - but I am considering it. Actually, my parents very firmly told me they wanted to help - I'm not sure how much but I would be happy with anything! It was so sweet of them. If it does get down to needing a loan I will do it, just want to be a little more stable financially and pay off a loan that is hangin over my head. Gee, I rambled on a bit there didn't I! I'm trying very hard not to despair, I know there is a way. Big THANKS for the support hon! Oh, and only two more weeks for you!!!!!!! Something for me to be so happy about!