BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee has sparked controversy by requiring IQ screenings for all morbidly obese patients who seek gastric bypass surgery, according to a FoxNews.com report.

"The term IQ test is misleading," Mary Thompson, spokeswoman for BlueCross Blue Shield of Tennessee, told FOXNews.com. "It really measures the patient's knowledge of the surgery itself and the eating and lifestyle changes necessary afterward."

BlueCross's documentation, however, spells out strict guidelines for patients considering the procedure that includes the need for both an IQ screening approved by the American Psychological Association, and additional tests designed to measure eating behavior or attitudes, along with other evaluative materials from a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Obesity advocates are outraged and plan to take the issue to state representatives.

Does an insurance company have the right to ask for IQ tests? Read the complete story and let me know what you think.

-- Amanda Barrett, amNY.com