Question:
Will Kaiser take care of me after a self-pay surgery?

I have Kaiser and they have denied surgery so I am going to do it self-pay. Will Kaiser PCP take care of issues relating to surgery (post-op care, blood testing, weighing) afterward? Any one have experience with this?    — sue_f (posted on September 11, 2004)

September 11, 2004
You really need to ask Kaiser what their policy is. the MAJORITY of insurances will not PAY for any 'complications' associated with something they do not cover. But 'generic' things like blood tests you could easly have coverd under your phyical routine alotment.
   — star .

September 12, 2004
I don't have Kaiser, but I self paid for my surgery and Athem has paid for my follow care, I got insurance last nov (had surgery in dec, the obesity was considered "pre-existing" I wasn't going to wait) but they have paid for my lab work and even my gallbladder removal since I have been post-op.
   — Patricia T.

September 12, 2004
I have a question for you..If you are paying for your surgery, why are you still going to Kaiser? I am not sure were you live, but, if I was paying myself for my WLS, I would like to have the best surgeon, and pre-op and post-op care for my money. For example, people come to Dr Blackstone from all over the United States that are self pay, she does the Gastric Bypass and the Lapband by Lap procedure, has excellent educational, nutritists, and the hospital is excellent and she has good follow up treatment like blood work and on going education. You should be able to find a surgeon were you live that provides the same care, so that worry of follow-up is not an issuse, that is just my thought.
   — cindy

September 14, 2004
I fought with Kaiser for about 3 years and I finally got my surgery on May 15,03. Why have they denied you???? Have you seen other Drs.???? I have high blood pressure and arthritis, I would hate to see you pay for something that they should be paying for. Good Luck Linda Lang
   — Linda L.

September 20, 2004
Hi Sue, I'm a little late on this, but thought I'd respond. I know several patients who have gone to my surgeon (Dr. Aniceto Baltasar) in Spain for surgery who have Kaiser for their health care insurance. To date, all have had NO problem with Kaiser covering their aftercare. It is important, however, to have a PCP who is supportive for you. Hope that helps. Blessings, dina
   — Dina McBride

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