Insurance Yes! Medical Policy No!

GrizGirl · December 9, 2004

Okay--Here's one for you. I requested a copy of my emloyers medical policy. The response I received from my HR department was interesting. Apparently, we do not have a medical policy--(nothing in writing anyway) yet. Our company moved to BC/BS of NJ nearly one year ago. Any thoughts as to whether this work to my advantage (or not)? I don't have any severe co-morbidities (yet) other than high blood pressure and some knee-joint/arthritis issues. My BMI is 39-40 depending on whose height measurement you use. I guess I wouldn't be considered obese If I was 8 feet tall.

Happy Holidays!

New Hope · December 9, 2004

Sally, do you have access to your insurance company's website? A lot of insurance companies don't give you a hand booklet anymore. They say it's because there are so many changes that the booklet would never be up to date.

GrizGirl · December 9, 2004

Yep--been all over the company website--no info there--I was directed by our local HR Department to contact our Benefits Broker--I haven't done that. I may just wait to see how the initial letter my PCP wrote goes over with BC/BS.

S.

blossom · December 9, 2004

Sally, high blood pressure and knee-joint/arthritis issues ARE co-morbidities.

hagerteresa · December 10, 2004

A BMI of 39-40 also is considered eligible too I think.

GrizGirl · January 5, 2005

The latest and most definitely not the greatest!-

I called Horizon BC/BS of NJ today to check the status of my referral/authorization. I had previously called and was assured that they had received my letter of Medical Necessity and was then given a case number. Silly me, I think having a case number will expedite things.

Long story short, The first comment I hear after being on hold for about five minutes, is "Please don't be mad but"...Gotta love that. Apparently my letter didn't sprout legs and walk itself to the appropriate department--they will get that darn letter there pronto.....

Crap like this, along with the extra weight keeps that blood pressure up!!

I was assured (?!) that I should have an answer in 15 days, or by the end of the month. I hope she meant the end of this month.