One of the big factors in deciding whether or not to undergo weight-loss surgery is the cost of the procedure and follow-up care. However, if you’re suffering from obesity, you’re probably already aware of some of the personal and physical costs of the disease. But you may not know estimates from private and government research show that the financial burden of obesity can average over $18,000 a year! In future blogs, I’ll break down some of those costs for you.

Losing weight and keeping it off can help alleviate or even eliminate many obesity-related health conditions. Plus, it can help improve your psychological and social well-being, and your overall quality of life. If you’ve tried every type of weight-loss solution without success, weight-loss surgery might be one of the better investments you’ve ever made in yourself and your future.

The LAP-BAND® System is regarded as the most affordable weight-loss surgery option. It requires a simpler laparoscopic procedure than comparable gastric bypass surgery, and generally requires a shorter hospital stay and recovery time.

The cost of LAP-BAND surgery depends on your individual needs. It’s partly determined by your medical history and current health condition.  Many health plans, including Medicare, and, in some states, Medicaid, may cover most, if not all, of the costs of LAP-BAND® System surgery. However, each health plan will have certain criteria that must be met before you can undergo surgery. And, in some cases, your insurance plan will deny your request due to restrictions in your policy or plan.

That’s why I think it’s important to pick a surgical center that specializes in LAP-BAND procedures and has the expertise to help you through the financial process. I’d like to suggest looking into the NewHope Bariatrics® Obesity Surgery Centers and their network of surgical partners.  When you contact NewHope Bariatrics®, their staff will not only schedule a medical consultation, but a financial one as well. Once you’ve met with your physician, they’ll personalize a care program and estimate your costs. The staff at NewHope is truly committed to helping solve your obesity problem; it’s their goal to find the best ways to help you.

NewHope’s financial consultant will review your health plan or insurance policy, and estimate out-of-pocket expenses for your surgery. They’ll explain what your options are, and can help you appeal your insurance company’s decision if they deny your claim.  They have a variety of negotiated packages and discounts available to help you manage your expenses for the surgery, and can refer you to financing companies and banks who specialize in qualifying LAP-BAND patients for a variety of loans that allow you to have the surgery and pay over time. As a leader in LAP-BAND® System surgery, NewHope Bariatrics® is constantly expanding their affiliated surgical partners throughout the United States, so if there isn’t a center near you now, there may be soon. You can get a more detailed explanation of all your options by visiting their website, www.newhopetoday.com.