As a follower of my blog, you probably know that I was a self pay patient and oh yes, that I love my lap band! My insurance denied me coverage for my lap band surgery at the time. I’m very fortunate; I was able to pay for my lap band surgery, but what about the people who can’t. It frustrates me that there are still insurers who will pay for hip replacements, heart transplants, treatment for diabetes related problems… but not for weight loss surgery.
Once I heard that obesity related medical costs in the US are over $150 billion per year and growing, I became very interested in trying to understand the “return on investment” (ROI) of weight loss surgery, frankly to help advocate for insurance coverage – remember this week, I also declared myself cured of obesity thanks to my lap band. As I learn more about the ROI, I’ll be sure to share what find out. Meanwhile, I wanted to pass along some information and resources I received about insurance coverage for lap band surgery.
According the manufacturer of the LAP BAND®, most cases are covered by insurance. How can you find out if your insurance company will cover it and if you qualify for the procedure? You should start by verifying your coverage directly with your health plan carrier. Otherwise you can follow this link to online resources to help you find out about insurance coverage to get access to an online tool that will do a preliminary screen to help you determine whether your insurance will cover the surgery. ( I think you have to sign up to get access to the tool.) There is also a LAP-BAND® Reimbursement Hotline [1-800-LAP-BAND (527-2263), Option 3] that lets you speak live with an experienced professional about insurance verification related to the surgery. Hotline hours are Monday through Friday, 6 AM to 5 PM PST (9 AM to 8 PM EST).
If anyone tries out these resources, please post a comment to let us know if it was helpful.
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