[lisa141]

I am thinking about getting LapBand. I have tried to lose weight by going to the gym and eating what I thought was better, but in one year I only lost 30 Ibs if which I am gaining back. Does anyone know if EMPIRE insurance for NYS employees covers the surgery and if so how long from initial appt does it take to get approved?

[stocco88]

I have the same coverage... and I inquired with them about gym membership and they do not approve any reimbursement for that, which I am very surprised since alot of insurance companies are now covering part if not all of gym membership fees... let me know how you do...

[jillybean720]

The only way to know for sure is to find out directly from your employer or insurance company. Just because two people have the same insurance company doesn't mean they have the same exact plan. I know lots of people who have had their WLS covered under UHC, but I now have UHC with a full WLS exclusion because my employer did not opt to include the WLS rider.

[Leenie]

Yep... you have to call and ask them.

[BurlyQ of Borg]

Hello!

I don't know what group you are covered through - I'm PEF

Unfortunately, this is what it states in my benefits book under what it won't cover:

Services, supplies or Pharmaceutical Products rendered in conjunction with weight reduction programs, unless the patient is morbidly obese and treatment is in a physician's office. Dietary food supplements or vitamins are not covered medical expenses.

If you qualify as morbidly obese, however, your dr. will probably know what standard needs to be met in order to be covered.

I would contact Empire AND your Dr.