Lap band surgery is a procedure in which a small portion of the stomach is banded in order to create less space for food, which makes an individual feel full more quickly when eating. Whether your insurance policy pays for lap band surgery or not, it is possible to have the surgery done without having to save up enough money to cover the entire price of the surgery.
The Costs
Lap band surgery costs vary widely across the United States, and how much money you can expect to pay for the surgery is contingent upon a variety of factors, including the health plan that you have and whether it covers a percentage of the surgery costs; which doctor or hospital you choose; and whether the procedure is done as an out-patient or in-patient surgery. Total costs can range from $12,000 to $25,000, which includes the fee for hospital space, the surgeon's fee and the cost of the anesthesiologist. Any adjustments needed in the first year will also be included in this total cost. Follow-up appointment fees for the first year following surgery can fall between $35 and $200 for each visit.
Insurance
While some insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid in some states, have started to cover lap band surgery under certain conditions, there are others that still consider lap band surgery an unnecessary procedure and won't pay for it. Health plans that do cover lap band surgery generally require prior authorization before the surgery is done and require individuals to meet minimum criteria to prove the necessity of the procedure.
Payment Plan
If you have been going to the same hospital or surgeon for many years, it may be possible to set up a payment plan. When you receive the bill, a payment plan can usually be set up by simply calling the hospital and speaking to a financial representative. These plans are often interest-free and have very low fees involved, which makes a direct payment plan an ideal way to pay back medical expenses.
Some hospitals may require cash payments up front. However, as the hospital benefits from a large one-time payment, cash patients often can get discounts on their care. The individual costs involved in the lap band surgery will often be lumped together with a small discount given for paying up front.
Healthcare Lenders
If your insurance policy doesn't cover the lap band surgery and you don't have the money to pay for it up front, it may be possible to get a loan for the surgery expenses. Surgery Loans, MyMedicalLoan and Citerra Financial are some of the financial institutions that provide financing for medical procedures. This financing works like any standard loan, providing a payment plan and charging interest until the money is paid back. Applying for these loans can be done by calling the company.
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