Hello Everyone,

Just a quick heads-up for all current and future patients of Dr. Spiegel's Office/Texas Laparoscopy Center. Due to an ongoing contract dispute with Blue Cross Blue Shield a decision has been made to opt out of the network. This means as of August 15, 2005 we will no longer be accepting the Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance for consultations, Lap-Band surgery or fills. During this 60 day period we will still file consultations and fills with Blue Cross, but no pre-determinations will be sent in for the Lap-Band surgery. This applies to both the Port Neches and Houston locations. Please contact the office for furhter information regarding this change and how it will affect you as the patient. The Port Neches office can be reached at (409)719-0009 - Office Manager = Angie. The Houston office can be reached at (713)960-0003 - Office Manager = Victoriya.

We apologize for any inconvenience this change may cause to any of our patients. The decision was based purely on Blue Cross Blue Shield's unwillingnes to work with Dr. Spiegel to resolve a contract dispute.

Thank You,

Angie

BCBS was my carrier and they would not cover the band so thats how I became a self pay-they are a pain.