For those without insurance

[cadezma77 0]

will having this procedure done in mx or just the procedure itself be an issue in trying to get insurance later on? I have cobra insurance now and it will run out in march. We tried to get insurance on our own, but we were told they couldn't guarantee approval due to me having the lap band (which is now out). Just curious if anyone knows ???

[tessies 224]

When I had the Lapband it was considered a pre existing condition. So I'm guessing yes. Even in a group insurance you can be insured but not have that part covered. That happened to me with my Lapband. I thought I was ok but my employer has a policy which did not cover pre existing conditions. But from my understanding the new health reform gets rid of pre existing conditions.

[altagirl 127]

In 2014 pre-exisitng conditions will essentially be a thing of the past, thanks to Obamacare. Not only can insurance companies not deny coverage - they also will be prohibited from charging more (increasing premiums) for people with PEC.

In addition - I am surprised that you had trouble with new insurance. In my state, if you do not have a gap in coverage (eg buying Cobra for that gap) then you are not required to have a wait period for pre-existing conditions and use PEC for exclusions or increased rates.. Also, the gap in coverage is 3 months, so you would have to be without insurance for 3 months for the PEC qualifier to kick in. This saved me three years ago when I changed jobs - I was without coverage for about a month and nothing was pre-existing (as long as your previous insurance coverage was in place for 6 months or more).

When your insurance runs out in March - will you be self covered or are you anticipating insurance through employer? This will make a difference.

I had my surgery in MX and it was the best decision for me. I understand the stress related to future insurance coverage but realize that you will likely be healthier.

Again, just hold tight until 2014 when your previous WLS won't be held against you .............and hope that Obamacare changes don't get overturned!!

[LezzieLez 180]

How will they know that you had surgery in Mexico if you don't tell them? The lap band may be an issue and this surgery if they find out.