Bariatric surgery has become a growingly popular weight loss option. It is a procedure typically recommended for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 and above, a BMI of 35 with at least one obesity-related co-morbidity such as type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea, and those who have been unable to lose weight through traditional methods, such as dieting and exercise.
The Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
When paired with the right diet and regular physical activity, bariatric surgery can help one achieve a significant and sustained weight loss. This, in turn, can lead to a myriad of health benefits including long-term remission from difficult-to-control type 2 diabetes, improved cardiovascular health, relief from depression and joint problems, and for women, can improve fertility in childbearing years.
Does Insurance Pay for Bariatric Surgery?
Many health insurance providers cover weight loss surgeries. Some weight loss procedures normally covered include laparoscopic gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery. Insurance benefits and criteria for weight loss surgery can vary greatly by plan and by employer.
Insurance plan coverage differ so it’s best to ask your insurance provider if bariatric surgery is covered in your plan, what type of bariatric surgery is included, and if there are any specific requirements to be able to receive bariatric surgery.
Insurance Coverage Requirements
It is very common for pre-approval to be required for bariatric surgery. Typically, information from the surgeon’s office will be submitted to your insurance provider for pre-approval.
Aside from the pre-approval, insurance providers may also ask for your BMI, age, a diagnosis of morbid obesity, psychological evaluation, and documentation of failed diet and exercise plans to determine if bariatric surgery is necessary.
As part of the pathway to surgery, patients talk with our financial counselor to discuss insurance benefits available and payment options. Foothills Weight Loss has a dedicated insurance coordinator who works with patients to navigate this process from start to finish.
If you’re considering bariatric surgery in the East Tennessee area, Foothills Weight Loss Specialists in Knoxville is here to help. From assessment to recovery, we are there for you every step of the way. To learn more about the bariatric surgery process, call 865-984-3413 or register for a free bariatric seminar online.
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