JudyAnticola

Also Choice Plus UHI, employer did not opt for the plan that covers the LapBand. HR is looking into it, but I do not think there is anything that can be done unless the company your work for changes plans. I hope something works out for you.

Thanks for all the replies. You are correct, UHC does cover it, my company does not have that plan. CHAMPVA does cover it and I am going to try that. In the meantime I am trying to get info for self pay just in case. I have not found a way to upgrade UHC, but I would ask your employer. To "strike up the band" since you are the veteran I agree you do deserve it. Find a good Veterans Service Office to help you and fight like crazy.

Hi, could some of you respond by telling me what your srugery cost if you have to pay personally for it and where you had it done? At this time my insurance does not include the coverage so I may have to pay. Just want to get some idea of the cost. I would not go to Mexico. Most likely just the Northeast US area.

The guy at Northshore LI Jewish Hospital, Dr. Geiss I think, has done almost 2000 of them.

What state do you live in? Just curious. Funny thing I have contacted the VA also, my husband died of a service connection so I have CHAMPVA, I am hoping that they will help, but my BMI is just at 40, but I do have other comorbid issues. I am hoping I can upgrade the UHC plan. Otherwise it will be cash, not sure how much it is here in Buffalo.

My policy has an outright exclusion for morbid obesity and obesity, so you are right the code did not help me. I have UHC Choice Plus but the plan excludes this. Why would a company exclude this coverage, in your opinion. It seems like it can only help to save health care dollars in the long run. I will pay for it myself. What is the cost in your area? I am in Buffalo, NY, do not have any price quotes here yet.

At this point my company does not cover the lap band. I have checked with every possible person. I will have to self pay, but it will be worth it right?

I have told too many people and I am really sorry about it, everyone is an expert. Keep it to those close to you who have your best interest at heart.

I was wondering how to get medicare coverage. I am 57 but will not be eligible for coverage for a few years. I think you said you are 27, how did you get on medicare, if you dont mind my asking? Thanks, hope you are well.

I was just told on the phone that UHC will not cover because of my employer's plan, but I am not giving up. I work for a large company, I can not believe it would not be covered. I could clearly get the medical necessity so perhaps it will be covered. Otherwise I will be a self pay. Like someone else said, I will just drive an old car and live longer!

It never occurred to me that my insurance might reject coverage. I have United healthcare but not sure what level of coverage. Are there some companies that do not pay for this?:tongue: Any idea what it costs to pay for without insurance?