Obtaining authorization from your insurance company for obesity surgery can be a challenging process. We will assist you in this process but your cooperation in providing the following documentation will improve your chances of obtaining approval.

A name of a contact person at your insurance company along with the address to send predetermination or medical review requests. We need as much documentation as you can provide regarding your attempts at dieting and particularly any medically supervised diet plans, plus your current weight and height. Documentation of any associated medical problems such as hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, or orthopedic problems. Letters from specialists or personal physicians in support of the surgery are particularly beneficial.

We can provide a questionnaire, which well assist you in organizing this information.

Depending on your insurance company it may be necessary to first examine you in the office before your insurance company will consider a request for surgery.

Obtaining approval can take upto to 4 weeks to complete. Many companies deny an initial request despite our policy of utilizing NIH national criteria in patient selection. In the event you receive a denial you need to go through the proper channels and appeal. The appeal must come from the policyholder and many companies will back down and approve coverage when faced with a determined patient. We can recommend legal assistance if you receive and unreasonable denial.

Insurance Plans
We accept most private insurance plans and will arrange out of network benefits if available. You are responsible for deductibles and co-pay amounts as outlined in your policy.

Cash
For those patients who want to pay cash for the procedure a discounted package rate is available which includes surgeons and assistant fees, hospital and anesthesia charges. All fees must be paid in advance. No financing is available through our office.