Benefits Approval

There are many ways patients cover the cost of their surgery. Some have insurance benefits that cover weight loss surgery, while others pay out of pocket. There may also be other resources available to you such as government or federal programs or agencies that may be able to assist you. Read some our patient's comments about how they obtained their surgery.

PLEASE NOTE: These are comments posted by the public. We do not endorse or recommend any of the companies or agencies below.

Aetna/USHC (GA) - October 14, 2004
I didn't have to call them at all. Dr. Freeman's office sent in the information, and the next thing I knew I had the approval letter in my hand.
(Lorri R.)

Anthem Blue Cross - PPO (AL) - September 20, 2006
(Joy C.)

Anthem BlueCross BlueShield - PPO (VA) - March 15, 2006
After having read many stories about the struggles people have had in getting this surgery approved, I was expecting to have to work to get approved by my insurance company. Imagine my surprise when the nurse told me that I had been approved by my insurance company on the same day as my initial office visit! You could have knocked me over with a feather! I know that very few people have an experience this pleasant and easy with insurance providers and getting approval for bariatric surgery, so please don't get discouraged if you're reading this while getting the runaround from your insurance provider. Just know that the struggle makes the victory that much sweeter and sometimes, miracles really do happen!
(Kristi B.)

Auto-Owners Prairie States - Prairie States Auto-Owners (AL) - June 10, 2004
(Joyful W.)

BC BS of Alabama - Group (AL) - January 15, 2004
At the time I applied for the approval I was not 100% sure I wanted to have surgery so I was relexed about the results and said to myself this would be a sign as to weather I should proceed or not. I was a little happy when I got the approval but still had questions and reservations. I received my approval on January 11th and it took me till May to decide to schedule a date for surgery. It was smooth. No problems at all.
(Kathryn K.)

BC/BS - Preferred Care (AL) - December 27, 2001
I have never dealt with so many wonderful people in my whole life. I love BC/BS! They received everything from my doctor 12/21/01 and I was approved 2 business days later. Wow, I couldn't ask for anything more. Be persistant yet super sweet and patient and they will treat you the same. Also, make sure you have every piece of info they could possibly want ahead of time.
(Karen E.)

bc/bs - bellsouth (AL) - March 6, 2002
(Gennette H.)

bc/bs - peehip (AL) - December 5, 2002
I was actually SURPRIZED to say the least. I really was worried~thinking I wouldn't be approved. My bmi was 38.? and the insurance was automatic for 40 plus. They told me I had a 50/50 chance and it would probably take 30 days or so to find out. I got tired of waiting so I just called the insurance company myself and they said it had been approved on Nov. 22! I was shocked! Very happy~Very happy :)
(Teri M.)

bc/bs - preferred care (AL) - March 9, 2003
(Annissa K.)

BC/BS - peehip (AL) - May 20, 2003
(Patricia I.)

BC/BS - PeeHip (AL) - May 12, 2003
They were nice and helpful. Approval was in a reasonable amount of time.
(Bama B.)

bc/bs - pac (AL) - July 24, 2003
(Melissa K.)

BC/BS - PEEHIP (AL) - November 19, 2003
Well, My insurance was fairly quick I suppose. I was approved after my first letter and it only took two weeks to the day for them to approve me. I have no complaints. I do think they respond to persistance. I called them every day sometimes twice a day. My recomendation would be that you MUST have a BMI of 40 for them to approve you.
(Kimberly B.)

BC/BS - Federal Plan/ Standard Option (AL) - January 20, 2004
(LV B.)

BC/BS - Federal Blue (AL) - August 6, 2004
Federal Blue is notorius for being late in paying, so I still do not know if they are going to pay for the surgery, they do not pre-certify. They did state that I meet the requirements by being over 100 pounds over-weight with a BMI of more than 40.
(Marsha A.)

BC/BS (AL) - August 26, 2004
(Sandra B.)

BC/BS - FEHB (AL) - July 24, 2005
It was easy I did the paperwork for the doctor and the office did all the work. I was approved in a week. It is either easy to deal with them or Im in bad shape :) either way it went through fast.
(Harold C.)

BC/BS of AL PEEHIP (AL) - October 5, 2004
(Diana W.)

BC/BS Local Government Employees - PPA (AL) - June 9, 2004
Intracorp reviews and approves BC/BS local & state employees policies. It seems they are a little more difficult to deal with than most BC/BS policies. You must have psyc. eval & nutritionist eval done before submitting. Although my PCP sent a letter of recommendation they denied me at first and would not approve until he sent his clinical notes. I don't know if it helped or not, but I called them once a week after the appeal was sent until I got my letter of approval.
(C.D. B.)

BC/BS OF ALABAMA - PPO (AL) - March 17, 2003
(Paula F.)

BC/BS of Alabama (AL) - August 19, 2004
I had run across some information on this website about requests for WLS being submitted by an online process. The information indicated that they had received their response in a matter of days. When I went for the initial consulatation at the surgeon's office, I decided to proceed with the process of WLS. I asked that they submit my request online, for possible faster approval. My consultation was on Tuesday; I received my approval on Thursday.
(Quilter G.)

BC/BS of Alabama - LGB (AL) - November 10, 2004
(Amber W.)

BC/BS OF ALABAMA - PPA (AL) - December 14, 2004
(Sweetbamalady S.)

BC/BS of MS (PPO) - PPO (MS) - August 9, 2006
I was approved within 2 days. I was very surprised by that being that I've read some negative comments about them approving the surgery.
(Andrea L.)

BC/BS of PA - PPO (AL)
Mine took longer than usual to approve due to being sent to the wrong BC/BS. Once it was clarified, they were very prompt. They also gave me info I needed. No Yes They're the best
(Becky M.)

BC/BS PeeHip (AL)
Everyone I talked with at BC/BS of Alabama is extremely nice and helpful. I only have great things to say about this company and how they handled my claim. My heartfelt thanks goes out to them for helping to make my life better and my body more healthy!
(Donna O.)

BCBS - PPA (AL) - December 18, 2002
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama was absouletly Wonderful!!! Never once did they talk hateful to me, or short spoken. Just totally nice each and every one million times I have had to call them! LOL No stalling at all on the insurance! But hey! That's what we pay insurance for every week, RIGHT? I would HIGHLY recommend them to anyone, and personally dont wann be without them!
(Ginny J.)

BCBS - Preferred Care (AL) - May 2, 2003
(Brandi F.)

BCBS (AL) - June 26, 2003
BCBS of AL was great...My letter arrived on Wednesday and I was approved by the next Monday...I don't think they stalled at all..
(Sherrie B.)

BCBS (AL) - October 25, 2003
had no problems with bcbs...information was sent from Dr Freemans office and heard in about two weeks of approval.
(Todd G.)

BCBS - PPA (AL) - March 31, 2004
My insurance company didn't give me any trouble whatsoever. They were very nice even though I called them everyday in anticipation...lol. I think my calling did help push them ahead a little.
(Heather i.)

BCBS (AL) - May 30, 2004
(Traci L.)

BCBS (AL) - May 18, 2004
(Candy J.)

BCBS (AL) - May 18, 2004
It wasn't a bad experience at all. Any waiting is hard to deal with; however, time between the first letter and the approval was only about 3 weeks. I did call them once a week to check up on the approval. I don't know if this made a difference, but I recommend doing this just to be current on everything that is happening.
(Tamara I.)

BCBS - PPA (AL) - November 3, 2010
They want every T crossed and I dotted.I had delays due to extra testing and rescheduling of my cardiologist.Don't give up and make sure all paperwork is in order.Also,check your employers policy on WLS.I called them once a week.I don't know if that helped or not.
(Paula C.)

BCBS - PPO (AL) - August 12, 2004
(Annette M.)

BCBS (WA) - December 7, 2004
NO PROBLEMS
(Bill L.)

BCBS - PPO (AL)
(Margaret V.)

BCBS (AL) - May 17, 2005
I was actually surprised at how fast & easy I was approved. BCBS never questioned me on anything. Dr. Freeman's office I'm sure played a big part in that. Everything went soooo smooth.
(Traci F.)

bcbs (AL) - October 1, 2005
(Teresa R.)

BCBS ACT TRUST - PPO (AL) - November 4, 2004
I had no problems with my insurance company, but my sister also has BCBS and she is having to wait until April 2005 to have her surgery, because they say she hasn't has her insurance long enough and she is subject to a waiting period. My sister is about 160 pounds overweight and a lot could happen between now and April! I think it is rediculous for her to have to wait. Her guidelines state that if a person hasn't received any treatment or medical advice related to their condition, then it cannot be considered pre-existing, but they still are making her wait. I definetly have mixed feelings about BCBS.
(Wanda K.)

BCBS Fed - PPO (AL) - October 3, 2003
(Mary W.)

BCBS of AL (AL) - July 7, 2003
Very fast APPROVAL
(Pam R.)

BCBS of AL - PPO (AL) - October 14, 2002
No problems, I was approved in 2 working days.
(Lou S.)

BCBS OF AL - PPO (AL) - May 12, 2003
MY FIRST LETTER WAS SENT ON 03/14/03 I CALLED EVERYDAY. AFTER 4 WEEKS THEY TOLD ME I WAS DENIED BECAUSE I DID MEET QUALIFICATIONS OF MEDICAL NECESSARY. I WENT AND HAD I SLEEP STUDY DONE I WAS PUT ON A CPAP FOR SLEEP APNEA PLUS I WROTE BCBS A LETTER EXPLAINING THE PROMBLEMS I WAS HGAVING PLUS MY FAIMLY HISTORY AND I GAINED 10 MORE POUNDS.MY DOCTOR FAXED ANOTHER LETTER WITH MY NEW INFORMATION ON 05/12/03. I called bcbs on 05/15/03 to see if it was in review and they told me I had been approved on the same day they recied the doctors letter 05/12/03. The first time around I called everyday and the people at BSBS was very nice and always polite.If you are denied the first time dont give up keep trying.
(Veronica Z.)

BCBS of AL (TN)
I was excited about the possibility of the chance to have WLS. I called my insurance company everyday until I heard an answer from them... the last time I called the answer was.... Your approval papers are in the mail. WooHooo! Each and everytime I called the workers were very nice and understanding. I would recommend that you call your insurance company for an update on your case. Remember to send in all you paperwork. I had my PCP to send a fax to them also, explaining my past history of weight related problems... my weight chart... what he expected my future problems would consist of without WLS. You have to do whatever it takes to get approval.
(Raven (Betty) E.)

BCBS of AL - PPO (AL) - April 22, 2004
(Susan G.)

BCBS of Alabama (AL) - June 23, 2004
I didn't have to do anything with my insurance company. The Dr.'s office submitted the request, and I just waited. I think my numbers convinced them that this was the right thing for me to do.
(Nancy P.)

BCBS of MS (MS) - March 29, 2006
BCBS of MS will not help at all. They will not approve regardless of medical necessity.
(Dyan F.)

Blue Cross - PPOSV (AL) - March 31, 2003
I have Blue Cross Blue Shield of MN. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama administers the policy. WLS was not added to the policy until March 2003. After first letter from my doctor, I was denied until more information was supplied. I was approved after more information was submitted. Total time for approval was about three weeks. Do I think they respond to persistence? You bet I do! Keep calling until they tell you what you want to hear.
(Gene F.)

Blue Cross - PPO (AL) - April 14, 2003
(Jacque J.)

Blue Cross (AL) - June 8, 2003
(Kristin J.)

Blue Cross - XAC (AL) - July 10, 2003
(Rhonda M.)

Blue Cross - PPA (AL) - August 2, 2003
(K P.)

Blue Cross - PPa (AL) - October 11, 2003
(Shellie B.)

Blue Cross (AL) - October 13, 2003
(Tomeka J.)

Blue Cross - PPO (AL) - February 11, 2004
I think an idiot reviewed my information, I was denied because "The patient's condition does not meet the medical criteria guidelines established by our medical staff. The submitted information does not document that the patient has been morbidly obese for the past two years."
(Daphne M.)

blue cross (AL) - January 13, 2004
(Carolyn B.)

Blue Cross - PAC (AL) - April 22, 2004
(Jaime T.)

Blue Cross (AL) - June 16, 2004
(Wanda D.)

Blue cross - ppo (AL) - June 25, 2004
(Bobby M.)

Blue Cross - PPA (AL) - August 9, 2004
(Shantamar :.)

BLUE CROSS (AL) - July 20, 2004
WONDERFUL NOT AT ALL IT WAS EASY NOTHING
(Bev S.)

Blue Cross - PPO (AL) - July 26, 2004
Had no problem
(Pat S.)

Blue Cross (AL) - July 31, 2004
(Regina F.)

BLUE CROSS (AL) - September 30, 2004
I DIDN'T HAVE TO DEAL WITH THEM AT ALL THE OFFICE STAFF AT THE SURGEONS OFFICE TOOK CARE OF EVERYTHING FOR ME.
(Ellen B.)

Blue Cross (AL)
I am very pleased with Blue Cross. I didn't think they stalled at all. I'm sure they would respond to persistence. Be patient! I had a great experience with my insurance company.
(Wakisha J.)

Blue Cross - PPO (AL) - February 10, 2005
(Kerry K.)

Blue Cross (AL) - March 20, 2005
(Leslie B.)

BLUE CROSS (AL) - April 25, 2005
It was a pleasure. No problems at all. They approved us on the first letter. No problems at all.
(Tonya S.)

Blue Cross / Blue Sheild - Preferred Care (GA) - March 13, 2003
(Susi G.)

Blue Cross AL - PPO (AL) - March 9, 2005
I called BC and spoke to someone to make sure my policy covered GBS. They told me it was on a personal basis. I saw Doctor in early June and was approved June 23. Surgery was scheduled for July 29. All went as planned.
(Tammy B.)

blue cross and blue shield - ppo (AL) - July 31, 2004
i have had great luck. i recieved my letter of approval yesterday(7-31-04) i wuold highly recommend this company to others
(Christy B.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - PPO (AL) - July 17, 2003
My first letter has been sent and I am waiting to see what they say. They say it can take up to 30 days to get approved or denied. I don't think I shall have a problem with them getting approved, my problem is with the fact that they do not cover the surgeons assistant so that is $750 up front and I have to pay the co-pays, deductables and out of pocket cost for the hopspital up front at the time of PAT which is another $1050. Seems like to me that is a lot that is not covered by them. I was approved after only 2 weeks. They customer service people were very friendly and helpfull EVERY time I called to ask them if I had been approved yet! LOL!
(The Incredible S.)

blue cross blue shield - ppo (AL) - July 3, 2002
(Megan E.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield (PA) - October 6, 2002
I was very pleased with my insurance. I was approved in 4 days!
(Barbara M.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield (AL) - November 9, 2002
I was recently denied, because they considered obesity a pre-existing condition. I am currently fighting it out. If you have similar situation, I would live to hear from you!!!!
(Sherry M.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield (AL) - February 27, 2003
(Beth M.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - PAC (AL) - April 17, 2003
My insurance company has been great. There representatives have been very courteous, supportive and polite when I've spoke with them on the phone. I started calling them to see if they knew if I had been approved after only 4 days. I called on average every 3 days till I heard what I wanted to hear.
(Kelly G.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - Preferred Care (AL) - September 27, 2003
I didn't have to do anything other than fill out the paperwork at the doctor's office and they handled everything else. I got the approval in less than two weeks and everything went off without a hitch!
(Bama B.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - Regence (AL) - January 1, 2004
(Carmen G.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - Alabama (GA) - October 8, 2004
It was actually no problem at all. I went to the siminar in Anniston Al. at Dr. Bryan Freemans office on Wednesday. They closed on Thursday and Friday as Hurricane Ivan came through. So I guess they sent the letter on Wed. About noon on Monday Dr. Freeman Office called and said that my surgery had been approved. So it only took about 5 days. I did not have to do anything to get approval from them. It was so easy, I think my insurance company is really great. As a matter of fact I was so shocked that approval came so quickly that I called BCBS myself to make sure there was not some mistake as I had heard all the horror stories about dealing with Insurance companies.
(James L.)

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD (AL) - November 18, 2004
I CALLED ABOUT EVERYDAY TO SEE IF I WAS APPROVED. MY INFO WAS SENT UP ON THE 26TH OF AUGUST AND FINALLY ON THE 15TH OF SEPTEMBER THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY NEEDED MORE INFO BECAUSE FOR SOME ODD REASON WHEN THE OFFICE PRINTED MY INFO OFF MY BMI, HEIGHT & WEIGHT WAS BLANK, SO I CALLED JOYCE( I LOVE HER )AND TOLD HER WAHT THEY SAID THE NEEDED. SHE PULLED MY FILE AND FAXED UP THE INFO THAT THEY NEEDED. I CALLED THE NEXT DAY AND I WAS TOLD THAT I HAVE TO GIVE THEM 72 HOURS TO UPDATE THE INFO. SO I CALLED 72 HOURS LATER AND THEY SAID THAT THEYSTILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE INFO SO I CALLED JOYCE AGAIN AND SHE SAID I KNOW THAT THEY HAVE SO SHE CALLED THEM AND THEN CALLED ME BACK TO LET ME KNOW THAT THEY DID HAVE IT. I CALLED THE NEXT DAY AND SILL NO APPROVAL. I CALLED THE NEXT DAY AND I GOT A MESSAGE THAT THE COMPUTERS WERE DOWN SO I WAS GOING TO TRY LATER ON AND ABOUT A HOUR AND A HALF LATER JOYCE CALLED AND SAID THAT I HAVE YOU APPROVAL, I WENT CRAZY!!!! WE SET A DATE THAT DAY.
(Im4jg24 J.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - PPO (AL) - November 20, 2004
(Kimberly B.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield (AL) - December 15, 2004
(Lisa S.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield (AL) - June 13, 2006
(Tammy W.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield - PEEHIP (AL) - March 24, 2008
My dealings with my insurance company were great. My information was faxed to them on March 11th. I called every three days to check on my status. They were always very nice each time I called. I called on March 25th and they told me I had been approved the day before and that my letter had been sent out to me! I don't think they stalled at all. I do think persistence pays off.
(April D.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield ALPHA (AL) - January 31, 2005
1. They are not too bad, their just thorough and careful. 2. Sometimes quite a bit, considering what kind of surgical proceedor you are having. 3. Yes. 4. Make sure that your surgeon has all your medical records in hand before he files. In my case the surgeon had to submit the letter to the insurance company and he did not have all the necessary information to get the job done correctly the first time.
(Allen L.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama - Preferred Care (AL) - July 30, 2002
Dealing with them was no problemat all,no stalling from company,and I think it is a Great company
(Virginia B.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama (AL) - February 4, 2003
(Pam H.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama - PPO/Preferred Care (AL) - April 15, 2003
(Amy R.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama - PPO (AL) - July 17, 2003
My personal dealings with my insurance company was more than plesant. Everyone that I spoke to was always courteous and polite.
(Robin D.)

blue cross blue shield of alabama - alabama state employees'health (AL) - August 3, 2003
It has been a tough struggle dealing with them.First it was get nutritional consult, then it was get a psychological evaluation and after all that,they still denied me.I had two doctors highly recommend me for the surgery.I think they were just stalling me and wanted to see what i was willing to go through to get approved.They don't understand what I and people like myself go through with all this weight.I called them often and they would tell me to call my doctor,I talked to different people and they were often rude.I'm an easy going person and didn't get rude back at them.I only ask one question "what good is an insurence company if they can't help the policy holders when they really need a life saver?"
(Oreadia P.)

blue cross blue shield of alabama - ppo (AL) - September 17, 2003
I called bc/bs on 09-09-03 and they said that they had gotten the paperwork that day and it would be up to a month to get cleared for surgery. I got my letter saying that I was approved on 09-17-03. It only took 3 days to approve it.Thank you Jesus.Now I can get the ball rolling. Just got my date for my new life its January 15,2004.
(Mia M.)

Blue Cross Blue SHield of alabama - ppo (AL) - April 22, 2004
(Robin G.)

blue cross blue shield of alabama - ppo (AL) - September 30, 2004
Was approved after one week. I am very happy with the fast response.
(Dianne B.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama - PPO (AL) - November 9, 2004
I really had minimal contact with the insurance company. But I had called them prior to seeking out a surgeon and they were very informative and honest about what thier criteria was. Well... I was actually shocked when the doctors office called so quickly with approval. I thought it would have been much more difficult. I did exactly what they told me to. I went through every diet and documented every attempt, even tried to remember dates and other Dr.'s I had been to in previous weight loss attempts.
(Kerri D.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama - State Government (AL) - June 24, 2005
(Stephanie L.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of GA Blue Choice - POS (GA) - February 27, 2005
(Tonya C.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia - Blue Choice-PPO (GA) - April 6, 2004
BCBS is horrible. They denied me soley because of my age, ignoring the fact that my weight is slowly killing me. I really don't like them right now.
(Mitzi O.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi - PPO (AL) - December 4, 2003
If you talked to 3 different people. All of them would give you different information about the status of your approval. I don't think they have a good understanding of what is going on. One would tell you pre-determination isn't needed and another would. Having said that, I did get a timely response. I did call several times after my Doctor submitted my information. My Doctor never received the letter that BCBS sent, but I got a phone number for Dr. Freeman's office to call and everything was taken care of over the phone.
(Brandon M.)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (AL) - May 5, 2005
They were easy to deal with. Never had a problem.
(Todd S.)

BLue cross blue shiled of minnesota (GA)
I had no problems with this insurance co. The only requirements for the surg. was to show 1yr documentation from a doctor that I had been trying to loose weight, and I had several years of documentation.
(Missy W.)

blue cross of alabama (AL) - May 24, 2003
(Kim S.)

Blue Cross of Alabama - Mark Fowler (AL) - August 12, 2004
I was very disappointed in my rejection letter, but not surprised since my BMI was not the "standard" 40 or higher. But due to other medical conditions I hoped for some insurance coverage.
(Diana F.)

Blue Cross of Alabama (AL)
My insurance covers lap-band as of April 2007, however my POLICY does not cover obesity treatment of any kind... My doctor's office submitted to my insurance without me knowing and I got a denial letter. I was not even intending to ask them.
(Laura B.)

Blue Cross of Georgia - EPO (GA) - November 23, 2004
(Charlene B.)

Blue Cross Preferred (AL) - January 19, 2004
Easy and quick. No complaints.
(Althea M.)

blue cross/blue sheild (AL)
(Wendie S.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield - Local Government (AL) - August 29, 2002
(Lora B.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield - PPO (AL) - January 7, 2003
(Ann S.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield - ppo (AL) - March 22, 2003
(Missi L.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield - PPO (AL) - April 15, 2003
BC/BS Was quick to approve, I got my letter in one month.
(Ladonna M.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield - PEEHIP (AL) - May 15, 2003
(Angie B.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield (AL) - December 3, 2003
I really didn't have a problem with BC/BS,except after 4 weeks to see if I had been approved and they told me yes and the letters were being sent. Well I let 3 weeks go by and no letter.So I called and explained I hadn't received the letter, and they asked me if my surgeon had received one?I explained I did not know for it is hard to get through sometimes during the holidays. The gentleman I spoke to was very understanding and I asked him if it was possible to have a copy faxed and he said he would check if it wasn't possible he would get one mailed right away. Within 10 minutes I received a copy on the fax. Everytime I have spoken with anyone at BC/BS, they have been very friendly and helpful. They were wonderful to deal with.Oh, and when I did get someone at my surgeons office,they told me they hadn't received it neither. So that is why they didn't call and schedule surgery before now. They didn't realize I was approved either. So persistance does pay off,just be nice and friendly.
(Lena C.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield (AL) - June 27, 2004
I was prepared for a problem with my insurance company because one usually encounters problems when dealing with insurance companies. However, I was pleasantly surprised at recieving no problems whatsoever with Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Without reservation, they honored their policy.
(Teresa E.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama - PPO (AL) - July 13, 2002
I called today, 7/15/02 and spoke with customer service. They were very informative. CSR told me of all of the necessary information that I would have to have to be approved for the surgery. Update: Approved within two weeks of visiting the Doctor. No problems, no delays!!
(Rhonda W.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama - PPA (AL) - April 15, 2004
I called BC/BS every other day after Dr. Freeman's office turned in my paperwork, and the representatives were always courteous and helpful. I was approved in 12 days! I've been covered by BC/BS of AL for all but 6 or 7 of the 33 years of my life, and in my opinion, they really ARE the best!
(Donya M.)

Blue Cross/Blue Shielf FEP - PPO (AL) - April 13, 2005
(Holly C.)

Blue CrossBlue Shield Anthem - Terresa Mullins (AL) - May 24, 2003
(Terresa M.)

Blue Ctoss - PPO (AL) - August 30, 2004
Blue Cross is the best
(Dennis B.)

Blue Shield of California (NV) - September 7, 2004
All communications with my insurance were handled by my surgeon's office. When my insurer wanted something from me, the surgeon's office notified me and responded for me to the insurer. I was delighted. The only communication I received from the insurer was a letter telling me that they had approved the surgery.
(Joanne T.)

Blue/cross blue/shield (AL) - December 1, 2003
I let the Dr.'s office file my request and I was approved 10 days later! I have had no problems with my insurance. I might sound like a comercial, but I have had nothing but good things from B/C & B/S
(Wanda A.)

BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama - PPO (AL) - September 22, 2003
(Terry M.)

BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD OF ALABAMA - PPO (AL) - April 29, 2004
(Allen H.)

Champ VA (AL) - November 19, 2007
They were great. Letter submitted on Thursday and the following Monday I was approved. Less than 3 working days.
(V F.)

Cigna (GA) - June 24, 2002
I had to call because they received the letter and held it for 2 weeks without sending it to the review board for approval.
(Patti R.)

Cigna - PPO (AL) - April 25, 2003
I had my consultation in Novemer of 2002, BTC sent request to insurance in January, Cigna says they didn't receive until March after I called BTC and Cigna and had BTC re-send information, sent to medical review March 6, denied April, letter says need documentation of duration of BMI, at least two professionally supervised weight loss attempts lasting 26 weeks, and one of those occuring in last 12 months, also wanted documentation of evaluation and access to medical, surgical, psychological, and nutrition which I assumed was done at consultation, BTC doesn't know why they included that one, but they want me to get the other documentation and send it to them so they can appeal decision. BTC is in Ohio and I am in AL. I had free consult from friend with BTC which is why I went with them first. I have decided to get info Cigna needs and try to go with doctor who is closer to my home. Not about to give up!
(Tammy T.)

Cigna - PPO (AL) - February 10, 2004
(Jason E. B.)

Cigna - POS (TN) - November 1, 2003
Cigna is full of crap! I would not recommend any one dealing with them. I was on the verge of a break down dealing with them. I received a letter stating that I was denied and when I called the office they could not tell me why. Then I recieved another letter with the same denial but with reasoning. I appealed and was still denied. I self payed. THe reason for my denial was because I did not have 26 consecutive dietary attempts. I had 25.
(Super M.)

Destiny-Guardian - ppo (AL) - October 7, 2005
(Rhonda B.)

federal blue cross blue shield (AL) - February 26, 2003
(Christina M.)

Fox Everett - Daphne Palmer (MS) - January 11, 2005
(Daphne P.)

Horizon BC/BS of NJ - PPO (AL)
Dr. Freeman's office submitted the paperwork to them for me after my initial consultation. It took about 4 weeks for them to approve it. I had no problems getting my claim approved.
(Joyce L.)

HPS Paradigm - PPO (AL) - February 14, 2003
Very pleasant experience. Anytime you deal with a insurance company you always expect the worse ( or least I do). But after I had my Pysch Eval and the information was sent in it took exactly one week for approval. The ladies I spoke with (Pam & Becky) were great and speedy. Good Job HPS Paradigm at least for now. That could change when they start paying the bill.. Feb.14,2003-- Well would you know it the insurance company is now dragging their feet. It turns out that the letter I got from MedWatch was just to verify that the procedure is medically necessary. The lady told me my surgery date was Feb. 26. But after contacting my doctor's office I was told that my insurance has yet to verify that my policy will cover the surgery. Feb. 18, 2003-- YES!! Finally approved!! Got my new surgery date today, March 5, 2003.
(Ronnie M.)

Mail Handlers Benefit Plan - Standard Option (AL)
MailHandlers is my secondary insurance. My primary insurance is BCBS of GA and my company has a written exclusion for weight loss surgery. MailHandlers has not exactly denied paying for the surgery but they will not predetermine if they will pay for the surgery. They want a letter of denial, not a letter of exclusion, from my BCBS. The only way to get a letter of denial is to have the procedure done and then they will deny charges due to the written exclusion - THEN MailHandlers will consider the charges. So that makes me a private pay going into the surgery and pray like heck that the insurance does not deny the charges.
(Kim C.)

Mailhandlers (AL) - January 21, 2003
(Protein P.)

Malinda L Evans - Malinda (AL) - June 13, 2004
(Malinda E.)

Medicare - Carolyn Whitten (AL) - August 19, 2004
(Carolyn W.)

Medicare A / Blue Cross (TN) - June 18, 2003
Well first of all thisis the insurance I have. I am disabled so my insurance is Medicare, through the government. Then because I am low income I have TN Care, also known as Blue Cross. I had absolutely NO problems, Both of my insurances together paid for all of it, including the fee for for Tim, Dr. Freemans assistant. It would be nice if they could cover the gas and motel stay to lol, but im not about to push it LOL.
(Christine B.)

Medicare A&B (TN) - June 15, 2003
(Tamie B.)

Medicare of Alabama (AL)
(John K.)

Medicare/BCBS Supplement - BCBS Supplement - TVA (AL) - April 5, 2008
I had no problems at all. Anything Medicare approves, my TVA retirement insurance (BCBS) automatically approves. I was fortunate.
(Jaycee N.)

NAMCI (AL) - September 9, 2004
THEY ARE PLEASANT TO DEAL WITH AND VERY HELPFUL. I DON'T THINK THEY STALLED ANY ON MY CASE. THEY PROBABLY WOULD ACT TO PERSISTENCE, BUT I'VE NEVER HAD TO USE IT WITH THEM. NO RECCOMMENDATIONS
(Shana C.)

none - blue cross
I was always denied every time I tried. My insurance comany said that even thought I am as big as I am that this surgery was cosmetic.
(Angel H.)

PEEHIP Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Alabama - EDU (AL) - September 1, 2002
Well everytime I called them they were nice, BUT the only information they could give me was what was on the computer in front of them. Most times I called it said "PENDING" but finally they told me I had been approved for one "code" submitted by my doctor, but denied for another. Come to find out, they were telling me I was approved for OPEN RNY but not LAP RNY. That made no sense to me at all. I called my doctor's office and they said it had never happened to them this way before. After worrying for one full week with this issue, hearing the same thing three times by telephone, I received my letter today October 4, 2002. Guess what it says? I'm approved for BOTH codes, LAP or OPEN, whichever my doctor believes I am a candidate for. It will be LAP unless I am not physically made up where OPEN would be best for me. I have no previous scar tissues or anything, so unless my liver is gigantic or something, I expect to have LAP RNY on the 14th of October. I meet with my doctor again on the 8th for the last time before the surgery.
(Rosemary P.)

Phifer Wire (AL) - March 14, 2005
(Bobby J.)

Phifer Wire (AL) - October 26, 2005
(Jennifer J.)

Regence Blue Shield Washington (WA) - December 8, 2005
(KM W.)

self pay (GA)
(Veronda S.)

The First Health Network (AL) - March 26, 2007
They were very confused about the system. They didn't know anything and transfered you too much.
(Vanessa D.)

Tricare (AZ)
They were nice and quick.
(Shedell S.)

TriCare (MS) - August 27, 2007
I never actually had to deal with them at all. My surgeon's office did everything. All that they required beforehand was a letter of medical necessity and a psychological evaluation. Once they received all of that information they had me approved in about 3 days. They didn't stall at all; and were incredibly fast and efficient.
(Michelle S.)

Tricare Prime (AL) - September 29, 2008
I didn't really have to deal with them at all. I got the referral to Dr. Freemans office. Then Dr. Freemans office called me to make sure what procedure I wanted then sent off the letter...less than a week later I got approved for the surgery! Praise God! =)
(Devanie G.)

UHC - State Merit (GA)
(Tia B.)

United Health Care - HCN Network (AL) - June 2, 2003
(Carla L.)

United Health Care - PPO (AL) - February 21, 2003
(Susan B.)

United Health Care - PPO (AL) - January 22, 2004
(Kim L.)

UNITED HEALTH CARE - PPO (AL) - August 17, 2005
(Penny T.)

United Healthcare - PPO (GA) - July 2, 2003
(Darlene E.)

united healthcare (AL) - January 13, 2005
I had a good experience. Nothing negative
(Louise A.)

United Healthcare - Choice Plus (AL) - April 20, 2006
(Yankee in A.)

United Healthcare - PPO - August 1, 2006
Not a chance...
(Randy R.)

WellCare - Medicaid (GA)
(LaTina A.)