weight loss surgery

[Guest guest]

Hi Friends...some of you know I have been investigating gastric bypass

surgery because of my morbid obesity. I have twice requested permission

from my insurer just for a consult with a surgeon, to even see if it is

an option for me. Twice they denied me. The first time they said they

don't cover " obesity " (yet they payed for Fen-Phen in 96). Second

denial said my comorbidities are currently managed by the medications I

take.

I have disputed this, and found out Friday that they have invited me to

present my case before their grievance committee on August 9 @ 2:30pm

PDT.

They gave me 2 weeks notice, so I hurriedly sent out letters to all 9 of

my physicians asking them to write supportive letters. I am preparing a

list of all the weight loss attempts I have made, a list of all my

medications and their monthly costs, and some of the expected

deteriorations I'm being warned of if the weight doesn't come off.

I am not at all sure weight loss surgery is for me, but at over 300 lbs

and 5 ft 3in, with many comorbidities, I believe I have a right to at

least a consult.

If you have any ideas as to what to put in my letter I'm writing to go

along with the doctor's reports, or just any advice, please share.

This is a very tough battle. I need to present my case well, and I do

believe my request is valid.

Love...

Tess