Hello All,

i haven't posted much but i wanted to post this good news---to share---and to encourage anyone who has Medicaid.

They turned me down at first which was expected so i went to Legal Services (for low income) and filed an appeal.

Did much research and sent info to lawyer. Appeal was set up with Judge, Medicaid Doc, lawyer and myself in a four way phone appeal.

i am a Christian and was praying that they would even overturn the denial on the phone---rather than much time and more paperwork. my lawyer said that wouldn't happen and they didn't do that.

Guess what!!!! They approved me and my surgery is on Nov. 7.

i am doing the HAPPY DANCE!!!! Just have to see surgeon again, PCP again and xrays. i started in March with this.

Thanks for listening!!

cal aka female

Hey Cal - this IS good news! Thanks for sharing.

If you dont mind telling - what state are you in?

I truly believe medicaid SHOULD cover -in extreme cases- some form of WLS.

Good luck!

Hi Paula,

Thanks for rejoicing with me.

i am in Pa. and i was told by my PCP that because Pa. is so strict and "in need" that my appeal would be denied.

God fooled everyone 'cept me!! lol

cal

Congratulations.... only wish that South Carolina medicaid would cover the band but when i called and asked if medically necessary which types of wls they covered they only cover the gastric bypass and I cant seem to find a dr that will take medicaid here in SC. Everyone please pray for me that i can find a way to have this surgery. I have suffered with my weight since i was 5 now have knee and back problems,sleep apnea,depression, and a beautiful almost 4 month old little girl that i want to enjoy life and play and runwith her.

Hi Thin,

Call all the hospitals near you and all the WLS and find one who will take Medicaid. That's the first step.

Start a 6 month accountability weigh in with your PCP. Nothing can be done surgery wise until that is recorded.

Medicaid denied my first request for the Lap Band. i hired a lawyer from Legal Services to help with the appeal. i still did most of the work as far as my past surgeries, all the states that Medicaid does cover etc.

Do a lot of research while you are waiting to find a doc.

i will pray that the Lord will make a way for you if it's His will.

Keep looking up!!

cal