United Health care coverage??? - Obesity Message Board

smurfswifey · 12-19-2007, 05:02 PM

Hi, does anyone here know if United healthcare will cover lap band or gastric bypass? I have the best plan that they offer, but am not sure what is covered. My papers say they do not cover surgery for obesity, unless it is morbid obesity. I am 210 pounds overweight so obviously I fall into that category. Anyone that has anything to share about this would be very appreciated.

embarrased2ask · 12-23-2007, 08:08 PM

Two people with the same insurance can have different things covered. it can vary for many factors including the state you live in and what sort of 'extras' (called riders) that your group (typically an employer) is willing to pay to get.

The best thing would be to call the customer service number and ask or have your doc's office call and talk the folks there that deal w/ docs.

Good luck!!!

Laura7876 · 12-24-2007, 05:00 PM

Yes, I believe they do cover it as long you are at least 100 pounds overweight. Again, call to be sure.

smurfswifey · 12-25-2007, 06:11 PM

Thank you both for the help. I go to an educational meeting on the 24th of January to see what options I have. The lady I talked to at the doctors office said some insurance companys make you wait 6 months and some let you get it done right away. If anyone knows anything about that it would be very helpful too. I will call the insurance company also. I just got this insurance this month, is that going to make a difference????

Laura7876 · 12-25-2007, 08:53 PM

A lot of companies, most actually, make you do a 6 month doctor-supervised diet, and then once you have completed all of your 6 months, then you complete all of the tests you need, like the Psychological evaluation, sleep study, labs, EKG, etc, then you can have surgery. Other companies don't make you do the 6 month diet. All are different.