All insurance companies differ based on which plan you have. Some insurers fully cover weight loss surgery, some impose certain restrictions and others do not cover the surgery at all.
In order to determine if your insurance company covers weight loss surgery please call the insurance company directly. The telephone number is usually listed on the back of your identification card. When you speak with a representative, be sure to specify which surgery you would like to have (open gastric bypass, laparoscopic gastric bypass or lap band).
A referral is required for all visits with the surgeon and other specialists. Be sure to contact your insurance company in advance for these referrals. Unfortunately, if you do not have a referral for your scheduled visit, your appointment will be rescheduled.
To receive final insurance approval for weight loss surgery, each patient must have a letter of necessity submitted to the insurance company. After you complete all of the program requirements, the surgeon’s office will prepare and submit this letter for you.
Unfortunately, some insurance companies will deny patients for weight loss surgery. If your insurance company denies your surgery, contact your surgeon’s office immediately. We will help you with submitting your appeal.
How can I get my surgery approved?
As a patient interested in weight loss surgery, you will have to complete an in depth screening process. Each patient is required to meet with the surgeon, the dietitian, the psychologist and an internist. People with certain medical conditions may be required to see additional medical providers to confirm their appropriateness for weight loss surgery.
