According to my plan, I have no coverage for bariatric services. Has anyone been successful in getting coverage in that situation? In other words, does "No" always mean "No"?

The insurance companies always say no and try to bully you, but you can appeal it and have it re-reviewed. You need to be persistent and don't take no for an answer.

No means no. Your employer made the decision to exclude bariatrics--and there's no way around what is stipulated in the contract.

You can, however, lobby for a change in policy---if you make enough noise (and point out the costs of NOT providing the care--because obesity tends to cost tons more than WLS)--your company may choose to change their insurance contract when it's time to renew/change.

The insurance company will give you what your employer has agreed to pay for. The place to focus your attempts for change is your employer.

I agree with Betsy. I was in the same boat with my insurance. I decided to do it anyway as selfpay. I have heard of people finding out if they happen to have a hernia and having the insuance cover a hernia repair surgery and then they pay the doc the difference for putting in the lap band. I did not explore that option, ended up having a hernia repair and now I am trying to see if I can get them to cover any of it after the fact. It would have been better to try BEFORE. Just a thought. Best of Luck

My employer excluded it even if medically necessary. I am going self-pay. It would have been nice to have insurance cover it but this is for me so I will do what I have to do.