Financing Lap Band Surgery

Answer 1

Weight loss surgery is a growing industry. It can transform the lives of those who receive it, but it is also a potentially expensive procedure. This article will review financing options for lap band surgery.

There are three main ways that lap band surgery is financed: through insurance, paid out of pocket by the patient, or financed by the patient.

Many insurance companies cover the lap band procedure, though not all do and it varies by state. Patients should check with their insurance about coverage and what is covered. It is not uncommon for insurance to cover the cost of the procedure itself, but not to cover the related care. They will likely also require demonstration of several factors. First, it must be shown that weight loss surgery is a medical necessity. Then, they are likely to also require proof that more traditional weight loss methods have been attempted and failed. This may require patients to go through some diet and exercise plans under the supervision of their doctor and delay the procedure.

If insurance will not cover the procedure, or if the patient does not have insurance, then methods for self financing should be considered. Most hospitals are set up to accept cash payments from patients without billing insurance. Keep in mind that the cost of the surgery itself is only one part of the bill. There will also be charges for pre-operative and post-operative testing, anesthesiology, the surgeon and surgery assistants, nurses, the hospital or surgery center charges, and follow-up care. Be sure to let the facility and doctors know if you will be self-paying. They often put together special structures and prices when this is the case.

If paying cash is not an option, there are also opportunities for financing. Several medical lending companies will set up a payment program for procedures such as lap band. These work similarly to a credit card and patients are even given a card that they can use to charge expenses. A credit limit will be established before the card is issued, and that amount can be financed and paid back over time to the lender.