Surgical and non-surgical treatment of morbid obesity is not a covered benefit?

When I had my LB I was covered 100% medicaid. Since then I have went for over a year w/o any insurance. I currently have new insurance with Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa. I have a Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion Period which ends 10/26/2010 . It also states that "Surgical and non-surgical treatment of morbid obesity is not a covered benefit." Do I have a chance of being covered? Im a little freaked out that I may never be able to have my band check or get filled/unfilled. I spoke with Heidi at Siver Cross Joliet. She is going to check for me to see if the insurance will pay. When I checked they told me no. But like I say "never take a no from someone that cant give you a yes". :confused:

Good to check, a lot of insurances have exclusions and under no circumstances will cover any type of obesity surgery or treatment...fingers are crossed you can find a way around this!

I was supposed to have gastric bypass 2 years ago. The day before I met the surgeon his office called to say my insurance company (Aetna) had an exclusion to anything to do with obesity surgery or treatment. I went so far as to write to the Insurance Commissioner of Florida because of all of my co-morbidities. There was nothing that could be done. So I called a lawyer - same answer. So I cancelled my plans and started saving. We have since changed insurance at work and my new company also has the exclusion. Apparently, if the place you work will opt for a waiver, you will be covered. But, most companies will not pay for it because of the insurance costs involved.

I will be banded on June 21st as a self-pay - $13,400.00. My life is work any amount of money, so I am getting ready. My self-payment will cover 2 years of free fills and doctor visits. I understand that a fill could cost as much as $175.00, but you must find a way to keep up with it. Good luck.

Boy o boy....that is puts my sad story in check Bklynike. IF I have to I will pay out of pocket for the fill if I need it. Thank you and best of luck on your journey