Sheila Said:

Bariatric weight loss surgery?

We Answered:

nope, she might find a surgeon who will take payments, but no hospital is going to give her a break, in fact probably won't even admit her unless she makes at least half payment up front. This surgery is not covered by most insurances, and hospitals are all about their profits. It's unfortunate that medicine is no longer about health anymore, it is solely about making the almighty dollar.

Jonathan Said:

Has anyone had any luck recently battling an employer provided HMO over non-coverage of bariatric surgery?

We Answered:

Sarah answered it well.

The vast majority of health insurance plans purchased by employers do not cover weight loss surgery of any kind.

All types of insurance policies (health, life, auto, homeowners) have exclusions. The exclusions are items that are not covered. Usually the language in these exclusions has been tested in court and will hold up. Your odds of being able to get around the exclusion for "weight loss surgery of any kind" is going to be very difficult.

You can file an appeal - hey, throw it up and see what happens. But expect them to deny it. If the policy specifically states weight loss surgery of any kind is excluded than it is excluded.

If you want to have the surgery, you will need to make arrangements to pay out of pocket for it. Care Credit is like a credit card for paying for medical services. I have seen their fliers at veterinary offices (because people can finance expensive procedures for their animals with it). They also work with some plastic surgeons. You may want to check out their web site. But make sure to read the terms carefully. Make sure you fully understand what you are signing up for. http://www.carecredit.com/

Christian Said:

What is the average cost of the lap band surgery after insurance?

We Answered:

You can easily check your minimal health care rates in internet, for example here - health-quotes.isgreat.org

Travis Said:

can i be qualified for bariatric surgery if i have a bmi of 28?

We Answered:

No. I think only those Obese defined as having BMI greater than 30 or 35 are considered.

Lena Said:

Should I get bariatric surgery? Anyone had it? What's the cost? Whats the physical/emotional experience like?

We Answered:

You can easily check your minimal health care rates in internet, for example here - health-quotes.talk4fun.net