UHC denied my VSG

I posted this on the VSG forum and got a few responses, can anyone else help me out?  I am trying to get United HealthCare to pay for a vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery.  I was denied because it is "experimental."  I submitted for the RNY, and am waiting to see if they approve me for that.  If so, I can use that as ammo.  I am planning to appeal, because I really feel that VSG is best for me.   Has anyone here been approved for a VSG by UHC?   Gary - a few people also suggested that you may be able to help if I need some legal advice/assistance? Post Date: 10/2/07 10:11 pm Well, no surprise here, but United HealthCare turned me down for the VSG today.  I will probably appeal, but my surgeon's office says it doesn't look good.  I am a really healthy girl other than being MO, so I don't have the leg of having co-morbidities that would exclude the RNY to stand on with the appeal.  I definitely prefer the VSG for all the reasons that you all do, but don't want to sacrifice my health waiting for the medical community to catch up with us.  I will very likely be a diabetic with heart disease by that time.  So, I am down to the choice of self paying $18,500 that I don't have (even with financing it would be incredibly tough), or going with the RNY.  I am currently researching RNY again (had abandoned it once i found VSG) and trying to make the best decision for me.  Any thoughts?    

Have you been to vsgfaqs.com?  All of MercyQ's research and appeal letter is posted there.  It is what I used for my appeal. not that UHC overturned my denial. She also had to go to the 2nd level appeal (her employer) and did wind up getting approved.  Marc (ramwelch) also was approved on appeal, as was tenacious.  Check their profiles, they have a lot of info on their sites. Celticfairy was approved straight up.  I know there have been more, just can't think of them right now.  Good luck. Martha

My insurer is owned by UHC; I got approved after legal action.