Insurance Information
Health insurance can cover bariatric surgery, and the Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga accepts most insurance plans. However, navigating the insurance process can be challenging. While many insurance providers offer bariatric coverage, it’s important to know that the policyholder of your plan (typically your employer) may have chosen to exclude this coverage. If your plan does include bariatric surgery, there may be specific eligibility criteria and pre-surgical requirements.
Don’t let this discourage you! The experts at the Weight Loss Center of Chattanooga are here to guide you. Our team will help you understand your insurance benefits and walk you through every detail of your plan’s coverage. If your initial claim is denied, we’ll also support you in appealing the decision.
To simplify the process, you can submit an insurance verification form directly through our free insurance check. Our insurance coordinators will then contact your insurance provider to verify your benefits, criteria, and deductibles.
Steps in a Typical Insurance Process for Bariatric Surgery
When you complete the insurance verification form online, our team will handle the following steps:
1. Determine if weight loss surgery is a covered benefit under your policy.
2. Verify the specific criteria for coverage, such as BMI, previous weight loss attempts, and other requirements.
3. Check if your plan requires participation in a medically supervised weight loss program.
4. Determine which weight loss procedure(s) your policy covers.
5. Gather any necessary documentation, such as chart notes from prior medical visits, to meet your insurance policy’s criteria.
Finally, we will prepare a comprehensive letter of medical necessity outlining your unique situation and submit it to your insurance company on your behalf to request approval for your weight loss surgery.
Does your insurance cover weight loss surgery?
Please fill out this form, and we will contact you with your results.
Understanding Self Pay
Our self-pay option offers a faster route to bariatric surgery, ideal if your insurance doesn’t cover the procedure. Dr. Ponce and his team are committed to providing one of the lowest cash prices nationwide without compromising on quality or outcomes.
While some patients have considered surgery abroad due to cost, we provide an affordable, local alternative. With us, you receive high standards of care, comprehensive follow-up, and the reassurance of remaining close to home—eliminating the uncertainties of international travel.
What does self-pay surgery include?
As a self-pay patient, you’ll receive an upfront, all-inclusive cost after your initial consultation—no hidden fees or surprises! This total includes:
• Surgery facility fee
• Anesthesia fee
• Surgeon fee
• Complication coverage insurance (BLIS) for peace of mind
The total cost for a Gastric Sleeve procedure range from $8,995 to $12,000, depending on your medical needs and whether the surgery can be performed as an outpatient day-surgery or requires a one-night hospital stay.
Financing Options for Self Pay
At our Center, we recognize that investing in your health is a significant decision, and we’re dedicated to making it accessible. To support your weight loss journey without added financial stress, we offer a variety of flexible financing options. Please ask us for more information.
