What insurance companies cover lap-band surgery?

Many PPO insurance providers are now providing coverage for Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, Distal Bypass and Lap-Band Removal. Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Oscar, Tricare and United Health Care typically cover weight loss procedures.

Is it hard to get approved for lap-band surgery?

You must be approved to undergo the Lap-Band procedure based on a number of criteria. People who qualify for Lap-Band surgery must: Have a BMI of 40 or greater, OR have a BMI of 30 or greater and have obesity-related complications, such as type 2 diabetes.

How do I get bariatric surgery approved by insurance?

Most insurance companies have similar criteria when approving a patient for bariatric surgery. Here are the most common requirements: Have a BMI (body mass index) of at least 40, or a BMI of 35 and above with one or more obesity related comorbid condition (calculate your BMI). A psychological evaluation.

How long does it take for insurance to approve weight loss surgery?

It can take two to four weeks for the insurance company to respond with a decision.

Does insurance cover lap band surgery?

LAP-BAND is commonly covered by most insurance companies. This mean that plans usually provide coverage for the majority of costs related to the procedure.

What is the best weight loss surgery?

The three types of surgery included gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding (also known as lap band). The study found that gastric bypass surgery boasted the greatest weight loss — both short- and long-term.

How many years does a lap band last?

Many studies have shown that more than half of the gastric bands are removed due to inadequate weight loss or complications after 7-10 years.

What is the minimum weight for lap band surgery?

To be eligible for bariatric surgery, you must be between 16 and 70 years of age (with some exceptions) and morbidly obese (weighing at least 100 pounds over your ideal body weight and having a BMI of 40).

What can disqualify you from bariatric surgery?

These are as follows:

• Drug and/or alcohol addiction.
• Age under 16 or over 75.
• History of heart disease or severe lung problems.
• Chronic pancreatitis (or have a history of this).
• Cirrhosis of the liver.
• Autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erthyematosus.
• Blood disorder which increases your risk of heavy bleeding.

How much does bariatric surgery cost with Medicare?

Although gastric bypass surgery averages around $15,000, most Medicare beneficiaries only pay standard plan costs.

Is it hard to get approved for weight loss surgery?

Learn your body mass index You typically qualify for bariatric surgery if you have a BMI of 35-39, with specific significant health problems like Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea or high blood pressure. A BMI of 40 or higher also is a qualifying factor.

How long does it take for insurance to kick in?

Once you’ve enrolled and made your first payment it can take about 3 weeks, for your application to be processed. If you applied for major medical health insurance and your enrollment was received in the first fifteen days of the month, your coverage will typically begin on the first day of the following month.

What are the qualifications for lap band surgery?

To qualify for lap-band surgery the patient must be at least 18 years old. You should have a minimum of 30 pounds to lose, or have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 35.

How much does lap band cost without insurance?

Lap Band fills can cost anywhere from $75 to over $300 per visit if not covered by insurance. After surgery follow-up visits with your bariatric surgeon are typically free. Complications can be extremely expensive. If the surgery is covered by insurance, then complications are typically covered as well.

Does insurance pay for lap band surgery?

Generally if a patient’s insurance paid for the lap band surgery, they will also pay for the removal surgery or any revisional surgery procedure. If you do not have insurance, many surgeons have become offering an affordable rate for removal because of how often they occur and how quick the procedure is.

How much does lap band surgery cost?

Lap Band Cost. How Much Does Lap Band Cost? Typical costs: For patients not covered by health insurance, the cost of LAP-BAND surgery typically runs between $12,000 and $25,000, depending on the surgeon and the geographic region. It usually costs toward the higher end of the range in large, urban areas, especially on the East and West coasts.