To be eligible for a bariatric surgery procedure you must be morbidly obese (weighing at least 100 pounds over your ideal body weight and having a BMI of 40). A BMI of 35 to 39 may also qualify you for the procedure if other serious illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or sleep apnea, are present.

Calculate your BMI at www.ObesityinAmerica.org or at www.nhlbisupport.com  (National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute).

In order to qualify for bariatric surgery, a person must:

• be between the ages of 18 and 64
• be at least 100 lbs overweight
• have tried dieting, medication, and other means of weight loss without success
• be motivated, well-informed, and able to participate in long-term care follow-up
• be willing to make the necessary lifestyle changes to achieve long-term success

Check With Your Insurance Company

You will want to call your insurance company to see if bariatric surgery is a covered benefit under the insurance plan that you currently have. You will want to have your insurance card with you when you call so you can provide your Group number and ID number.

Download a phone script (PDF) to prompt you on what questions to ask your insurance company.

Attend a Free Bariatric Seminar

Attend a free bariatric seminar to listen to the director of our bariatric surgery program, Dr. Walter Cha talk about obesity and the different surgical options available. The bariatric nurse coordinator will also discuss how to get started with the program and what is required prior to submitting your paperwork to your insurance company for pre-authorization. Click here to register and for more information.

Self-Pay Options Are Available

If your health insurance doesn't cover your weight loss surgery or fails to approve you for the procedure, MetroHealth has other payment options available. Carecredit financing www.carecredit.com is available for the Lap-Band procedure. Find out more.