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We get it. Many bariatric patients have lived years or even decades with the cloud of excess weight hanging over them. After dozens of diets, commercials, weight loss plans, and even medically supervised diet plans, it’s easy to look no further and give up, resigning to a less-than-optimal physical situation. It’s no wonder, therefore, that when our patients finally decide to have bariatric surgery, they want to do it right away.
Unfortunately, the speed at which insurance companies work through approvals can be somewhat glacial. The process also requires significant documentation to show that the surgery is necessary and that the patient qualifies. This process can last three to six months, sometimes even longer, which may seem like a lifetime. It’s often a consideration when patients decide to consider self-pay bariatric surgery.
What to Do During This Time
During this waiting period, you can do plenty to prepare yourself for an upcoming procedure. First, be sure you collect all the relevant information your insurance company requires and perform all of the tasks, including preoperative testing and medical weight loss visits, if necessary, they need. This is also a great time to start building your support group, which may include friends and family who are supportive of your decision to have bariatric surgery. Now is also a great time to prepare for immediate post-operative life, including figuring out who will drive you from the hospital and dividing chores amongst family members, friends, and kids.
The Self Pay Option
Of course, there is always the option for self-pay bariatric surgery, which is a program that has become more attractive in recent years due to several factors:
- First, insurance companies are strict. Even bariatric patients with significant comorbidities may not be approved for surgery. Even if they are eventually approved, this process can take months, as mentioned above.
- With today’s deductibles, coinsurance, and co-pays, there’s an excellent argument for the financial viability of bariatric surgery compared to insurance coverage.
- Some insurance companies and plans exclude bariatric surgery.
- Considering that self-pay patients will not be subjected to the same insurance requirements, the time commitment is shortened.
However, remember that just because there are fewer insurance-mandated hurdles to jump, it doesn’t mean we choose our patients any less strictly.
Indeed, over the years, we have learned that choosing the right patient for a bariatric procedure, cash or insurance, is critical to ensuring the best outcomes in terms of both weight loss and overall health. So, don’t be surprised if we ask for some testing to ensure your safety during the procedure.
Our self-pay surgical price includes everything needed to perform the procedure safely and effectively with appropriate follow-up. Hear more about self-pay for bariatric surgery from a patient: