Does Medicaid cover bariatric surgery? Do they cover gastric sleeve surgery? Is there a co-pay?
Medicaid coverage for weight loss is determined on a state-by-state basis. This means that some states cover the procedures while others do not. Regarding requirements for weight loss surgery, Medicaid requires different things compared to other insurance companies. Patients will need to meet several different requirements to qualify for surgery and coverage through Medicaid. They will also need to be free of any medical issue that prevents them or creates a risk for them to have surgery in general. If the patient passes these two tests, then Medicaid generally will pay for your weight loss surgery procedure.
Provide documentation that they have tried to lose weight in the last year and have failed (Patients must complete a medically-supervised program for six months that is monitored by their physician).
Medicaid will not cover bariatric surgery for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis, cancer, who are pregnant, other psychological problems or those with long-term use of steroids.
When a patient meets the criteria required by Medicaid, they will pay for Lap gastric bands including both Realize Band and Lap-Band, gastric sleeve and gastric bypass procedures.
If they approve the procedure, they offer full coverage to the patient. In some instances, other supplement insurance or gap insurance will be needed once the patient has been approved for surgery. This depends on the coverage/plan the patient has and if they have met their deductibles for the year (if applicable). Because these things are so personal to each patient, it is advisable that patients work directly with both their surgeon and Medicaid to understand the costs associated with the surgery and if they will be responsible for any of them before having surgery.
For Medicaid to cover your weight loss surgery, you must have your procedure at a Center for Excellence (unlike Medicare who recently changed their requirements). These facilities have a level of excellence that makes them successful at performing these procedures. If you have any specific questions about your Medicaid coverage and whether or not weight loss surgery is an option for you, contact them directly. Yes, your surgeon is an excellent source of information, but you are responsible for making sure there is no surprises post-op regarding out of pocket costs and overall coverage.
Bariatric Journal is a leading publication for bariatric surgery guides and information. We are on a mission to help educate millions the benefits of weight loss surgery.
Bariatric Journal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, nor treatment. Please consult professional medical advice before pursuing any treatment.
