BCBS bases their decisions on the sleeve because they consider it investigational.  I wouldn't appeal based on NSAIDs, BCBS covers the band and you can take NSAIDs with a crappy band.

I would appeal based on the FACT that a sleeve is not investigational in the least.  It's actually older than the band.  Provide studies showing it is not investigational, the ASMBS endorses the sleeve, and it is anything but investigational.

 
Amazingly, in comparison UHC is one of the better ins co's.  They all kinda suck. ;o)

It's hard to tell, nobody can give you accurate numbers because it depends on which UHC policy you have and what the contractual agreement is between your doc and ins co.  But do know, you do not have to pay 15% of what the hospital/doc charges, you will only have to pay 15% of the contracted price.  Big, huge, mega difference!

Just an update. I changed back to my old plan.  BCBS is also requiring you be at 40.bmi for 2yrs and I am just hitting that bmi this year.  Bummer.

Wisetears, Have you heard of an exclusion being approved? Right now I'm still in the appeal process, and I had Humana w/the exclusion, so i appealed through my husbands job through the union. I talk to the rep thats handling it ,and it has been oveer a year now,she thinks it may go through its just this healthcare reform thats slowing this up. But now she thinks she may have an answer in Jan.2011. So I told her if she doesnt call I will be contacting her.My best friend thinks I will get somehow I will,but sometimes I really dont see it, like I'm wasting my time,but everytime I want to give up something tells me is not the right time yet and something willsoon. My employer has single plans,but she was willing to offer me funds to pay for it, but she didnt have funds either, but she said maybe next year soon and she will keep me posted. So I'm still waiting and we shall see. Thanks for reading.

 
Oh, one other issue.  Are you aware that not all US medical schools are using the Hippocratic Oath anymore?  Many haven't been for many years.  They are permitting the student body to write their own in some medical schools.