Paying for my surgery

Insurance
All insurance carriers and policies have different coverage guidelines and exclusions. Make sure you contact your insurance company to determine coverage criteria. If you do not have insurance coverage for this type of procedure, we have designed several self-pay options.

Download the insurance verification form.

Generally, insurance plans require you to meet the following criteria for weight loss surgery to be covered:

• BMI of more than 40 or more than 35 with a related health condition
• A documented history of medical weight loss attempts
• Between two and five years of weight history
• A psychological evaluation
• Nutrition counseling
• Additional insurance requirements may include a documented three- to six-month medically supervised diet, a blood test to rule out a thyroid disorder or other possible diseases

While insurance will cover a majority of the cost of certain bariatric surgeries, you should contact your insurance company to determine what is not covered (e.g., out-of-pocket fees, co-pays and/or deductibles).

Self-pay
While most insurance will cover bariatric surgery, we understand that some simply will not. In these instances–and for people who do not have insurance–we offer highly competitive rates and several self-payment options. And now, when you have your surgery between January 2 and March 31, 2012, you can save $6,300 when you self-pay for your LAP-BAND® surgery. For more information about this limited time offer, call 678-312-6200.

Financing
Taking on the payment or co-payments for these surgeries is a big investment in your health. We do require payment at the pre-operative visit from all our bariatric surgery patients for self-payment. Our financial coordinator will be happy to discuss options with you during your consultation. 

For more information about paying for your surgery, contact Erin at 678-312-6220 or e-mail ethompson13@gwinnettmedicalcenter.org.