Bariatric surgery is a metabolic procedure for long term weight management. It not only leads to weight loss but also helps in remission of obesity related problems like diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint pains and others. There is a positive impact on quality of life and several studies have also shown increased lifespan after bariatric surgery.
Because of the rising trend of obesity and metabolic problems,there has been an increased demand for bariatric surgery in the past few years. Although it was considered a part of cosmetic surgery in the past, recent evidence has established its efficacy as a metabolic procedure with a positive impact on overall health.
Earlier, the insurance companies were not giving the insurance coverage to bariatric surgery. However, because of the increased incidence of obesity and the growing health concerns, people with morbid obesity with established health issues like uncontrolled diabetes, sleep apnea and cardiomyopathy are eligible to undergo bariatric surgery I’m under insurance. Their health status has to be first determined by the treating doctor and it has to be established that bariatric surgery would be necessary and beneficial for the person in the long term. Once this is done, the insurance company would cover all the expenses incurred during the procedure.
Thus patients with morbid obesity and established comorbidities are eligible to undergo bariatric surgery for long term weight loss and resolution of diseases.