Is Lap Band Surgery Covered by Insurances?

Some insurance companies cover adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band Surgery) if you meet certain criteria. Guidelines vary from one plan to another, so contact your insurance company to ask about the conditions and stipulations on your plan.

Body Mass Index

Many insurance companies will cover Lap-Band surgery if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with one or more co-morbidities.

Co-Morbidities

Co-morbidities are health problems that are related to obesity. Qualifying co-morbidities for insurance coverage may include diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.

Diet

Many insurance plans require you to follow a supervised diet for up to six months in order to be approved for Lap-Band surgery.

History of Weight

To qualify for insurance coverage, you may need to provide medical documentation indicating you have been overweight or obese for at least five years.

Psychological Evaluation

Some insurance companies also require a psychological evaluation to demonstrate that you are capable of handling the pressures and stresses that follow Lap-Band surgery.

References

• Bariatric Surgery Specialists: Insurance Coverage and Weight Loss Surgery