Mar 19, 2013

Lap Band Procedure Cost and Insurance Coverage

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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're considerably overweight, and have made every attempt to shed pounds, but have ended up unsuccessful, you might consider weight loss surgery. There are actually various forms of weight loss surgery, but one of the more popular methods today is by using the insertion of a lap band. Of course the question many folks have is just how much does a lap band procedure cost.

Because this surgery is fairly new, the price will be between about $12,000-$25,000 depending on what area of the country you are in. However, you can find ways to decrease 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 treatment save your life, it can also save you money. In a study carried out by the University of California, patients who had a lap band procedure saw an astonishing $15,000 yearly in savings. From the money normally used on food, medication, weightloss programs and medical co-pays, this weight loss procedure could actually wind up paying for itself within a year.

Whenever people end up very over weight, the consequences of that weight with their well being or their lifespan may be devastating. That is the reason it's very crucial to attempt every thing conceivable to lose weight and to be healthier. However, if those attempts become ineffective, then it may very well be the time to think about a lap band procedure. After addressing this concern with your physician, and discussing the lap band procedure cost, you will probably find that this procedure is your very best option.




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