Crunch Time

[vrodge02]

Hello all-

I has been about 6 months since my first insurance denial and I'm in the 3rd and final external appeal stage, which should return the final decision by the last week of November. I am only about 25% confident that the denial will be overturned. At that point, I am ready to just pay for the surgery myself and get on with it. I do have some deep reservations; however, mainly complications such as leaks, gall stones, abscess, ulcers, or other possibilities due to the surgery itself, which may not be covered by health insurance since the procedure was not approved. I accept that based on research, but I would like to hear from those who have had complications and in particular, if you were private pay and what expenses/issues you have encountered as a result.

Thanks,

Vince

[KiwiGal]

Hi Vine

I was self pay - but in New Zealand. It cost $20,000.00 NZD. I had my surgery in a private hospital but was told that if there were any complications I would have to be transferred to a public hospital. It went well and I have had no issues since. I have regular follow ups with the bariatric clinic and will do for 2 years. This was included in the original cost.
The surgery has truly changed my life....for the better :-)

I'm sure there will be others coming along shortly to offer advise in the US.

I wish you well.

[Grammy2s&c]

I'm sorry you're having trouble with insurance not covering it. For years my insurance would not cover it and fortunately it will now. If I were to be denied this time, I would have gone to Mexico where it costs a fraction of what I costs here. Best of luck to you!