Hey friends -

I am just starting the process with my WLS. I would prefer having the sleeve over Bypass, but Tricare seems to think Bypass is better/safer. Apparently, they are not up with the times. Anyway, I was researching on Tricare for any changes in the policy and to see if it would benefit me to try to appeal when the decline comes through. What I found was, Tricare is having a Webinar on July 31, 2014 from 1-2 pm EST. (North Region I guess). Someone named Francine Forestell is conducting this webinar on claims and appeals process. I thought if several people questioned live and online the need for the VSG to be approved, it couldn't hurt. HURRY, there is limited space for participants. I just registered today. Praying they will finally concede!!!

Bring it on, good luck I've talked with Tricare couple times asking each month if they will change and cover my sleeve with them being a secondary ins. Nope they don't cover sleeves. It's just not fair they usually cover things under the Medicare guidelines but not this :-(

Hi there,

I was told by TRICARE West Region that the sleeve is only covered if there's a qualified general surgeon with bariatric training that had training doing the sleeve at a MTF. Since we're at a base with only a clinic, the RNY gastric bypass was my only option since having to go down town. I'm glad I prepared for this route-I have acid reflux bad & the sleeve & lap band are no good if you have that. Good luck-maybe you'll be told differently.