How to Pay for Bariatric Surgery

You can pay for bariatric surgery either by claiming for insurance or paying by yourself. Getting insurance for weight loss surgery may not be possible, though, because some insurance companies don't cover it. Follow these steps to find out how to file for coverage or to finance it on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Get details about your surgery expenses from your doctor or surgeon. Ask them about the actual amount that will be billed to your insurance company.
2. Contact the insurance company and let them know you'll be needing the surgery. You must get clearance from them first--what they call preauthorization--if they'll cover you. The insurance company won't pay for surgery without the correct paperwork in place before it happens.
3. Make sure that your surgeon or doctor has all the required information and documents ready to give the insurance company for proof of your health condition.
4. If you're denied coverage, you can appeal. Write and send an appeal letter signed by your doctor or surgeon. There's a possibility that the appeal will be reviewed and the claim will be paid. However, the insurance company may still refuse.
5. Pay for your surgery yourself if your insurance doesn't cover it. You can pay with credit cards, make a lump sum payment or take out loans from financial institutions to support the cost.
6. Negotiate with the surgeon to see if you can pay in installments. This will reduce the burden of arranging for a huge sum of money instantly.