Question:
Can i buy a private insurance that will cover the cost of the surgery?

My husband carries Blue Cross Insurance through Sierra Pacific Industries. Sierra Pacific refuse to pay for any weight related procedure even if it is medically necessary. I am wondering if you can buy a private insurance that will cover the surgery?    — Leslie L. (posted on September 5, 2002)

September 4, 2002
Most individually purchased plans have the WLS exclusion. Do you have insurance available through your employer?
   — RebeccaP

September 5, 2002
Not to be a wet blanket but from my searching I really think the best bet for us who are obese to get on insurance that pays is to find an employer with insurance that you KNOW will pay. If you're part of a group policy they HAVE to take you. I found an individual policy in my state that covered WLS if it was medically necessary but they refused me access to the coverage. I'm too heavy & have health issues. So even if you do find a policy, if you're an individual they'll more than likely refuse to carry you. Catch 22.
   — Shelly S.