Monday, March 18, 2013

Lap Band Procedure Cost and Insurance Policy Coverage

By Kate Jones


Many people struggle with excess weight. Some people struggle more than others. If you are looking to lose a few pounds, then a change in your eating habits, as well as getting in some light physical activity in most cases will probably do the trick.

However, if you are significantly overweight, and have made every effort to lose weight, but have been unsuccessful, you might want to consider weight loss surgery. There are actually a few different types of weight loss surgery but one of the most popular methods these days is with the insertion of a lap band. Of course the question many people have is how much does a lap band procedure cost.

Since this surgery is somewhat new, the cost will be anywhere from about $12,000-$25,000 depending on what part of the country you live in. However, there are some ways to reduce the lap band procedure cost.

In a few cases the lap band procedure cost might not be covered by your insurance because it's considered to be an elective surgery, but most insurance companies will now cover a large portion of the cost. For example, if a person on Medicaid or Medicare were to meet the National Institute of Health's criteria of a BMI greater than 40 (or a BMI of at least 35 accompanied by health issues that are life threatening due to obesity), the insurance company could pay up to 80% of the costs. Many insurance companies use this criteria to determine your eligibility for this surgery.

Not only can this procedure save your life, it can save you money as well. In a study conducted by the University of California, patients post lap band procedure realized a whopping $15,000 annually in savings. With the money normally spent on food, medication, weight loss programs and medical co-pays, this procedure could actually end up paying for itself in as little as a year.

When people find themselves extremely overweight, the ramifications of that weight on their quality of life or their lifespan can be disastrous. That is why it is so important to try everything possible to lose weight and to be healthier. However, if all those attempts become fruitless, then it may be time to consider something such as a lap band procedure. After addressing this issue with your physician, and discussing the lap band procedure cost, you may find that this is your best possible option.




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