Gastric Sleeve Costs & Financing Explained: Your Comprehensive Guide

Bariatric surgery has become an increasingly popular and effective solution for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health risks. Among the various bariatric procedures, gastric sleeve surgery has garnered significant attention due to its success rates and comparatively lower risks. However, understanding gastric sleeve costs, financing options, and insurance coverage for gastric sleeve surgery can be challenging. This comprehensive guide delves into these aspects to help you make informed decisions about your journey toward improved health. Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A Brief Overview Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a weight loss procedure in which about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a tube-shaped “sleeve.” This smaller stomach restricts food intake and promotes satiety, leading to significant weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health conditions. The surgery is typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above or a BMI of 35 or above with obesity-related health issues. Understanding the Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery The cost of gastric sleeve surgery can vary widely based on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, the geographical location of the surgery, and the patient’s specific medical needs. In the United States, the average cost of gastric sleeve surgery ranges from $15,000 to $25,000. This price generally includes pre-operative tests, the surgical procedure, anesthesia, hospital stay, and post-operative care. To obtain an accurate cost estimate, it is essential to consult with your surgeon and get a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved. It’s important to note that gastric sleeve surgery may be more affordable in other countries, such as Mexico or India, where medical tourism is popular. However, patients should exercise caution and thoroughly research the credentials and track records of international surgeons and hospitals before pursuing this option, as the quality of care may vary. Insurance Coverage for Gastric Sleeve Surgery Many health insurance providers cover bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, if the procedure is deemed medically necessary. To qualify for coverage, patients must typically meet specific criteria, such as having a BMI above a certain threshold and demonstrating a history of unsuccessful weight loss attempts through diet and exercise. It is vital to contact your insurance provider to determine if they cover the procedure and the necessary documentation required. In some cases, insurance providers may require patients to participate in a medically supervised weight loss program before approving coverage for bariatric surgery. These programs typically involve regular consultations with healthcare professionals, dietary counseling, and exercise regimens. Navigating the insurance approval process can be challenging, but working closely with your bariatric surgery team can make the process smoother. They can help you gather the necessary documentation, submit appeals if your initial claim is denied, and guide you through each step of the process. Financing Options for Gastric Sleeve Surgery If your insurance does not cover gastric sleeve surgery or you have high out-of-pocket costs, various financing options can help make the procedure more affordable. Personal Savings and Budgeting Setting aside money in a dedicated savings account or adjusting your budget to allocate funds towards the cost of surgery is a practical approach. By reducing discretionary spending and prioritizing your health, you can accumulate the necessary funds over time. Medical Loans Medical loans are specialized personal loans designed to cover healthcare expenses. They can be obtained through banks, credit unions, or online lenders. When considering a medical loan, it’s essential to compare interest rates, terms, and conditions to find the best option for your financial situation. Keep in mind that your credit score will affect your eligibility and the interest rate offered. Payment Plans Some bariatric surgery centers offer in-house payment plans, allowing patients to pay for the procedure in installments. These plans may be interest-free or carry a low-interest rate, making them an attractive option for many patients. Be sure to ask your surgeon or surgical center if they offer payment plans and the terms associated with them. Health Care Credit Cards Health care credit cards are designed to cover medical expenses not covered by insurance. These cards often offer promotional financing with low or no interest for a certain period, making them a viable option for funding your gastric sleeve surgery. However, it’s essential to be aware of the interest rates and terms that apply once the promotional period ends, as they can be higher than traditional credit cards. Home Equity Loans or Lines of Credit If you have equity in your home, you may be able to secure a home equity loan or line of credit to finance your gastric sleeve surgery. These loans typically offer lower interest rates than personal loans or credit cards, as your home is collateral. However, this option carries the risk of losing your home if you’re unable to make the payments. Financial Assistance Programs Some hospitals and bariatric surgery centers offer financial assistance programs for patients who demonstrate financial need. These programs may provide discounts or sliding-scale fees based on your income level. Be sure to ask your surgeon or hospital if they offer any financial assistance programs and the eligibility requirements. Gastric sleeve surgery can be a life-changing procedure for those struggling with obesity, but the cost of surgery can be a significant barrier. Understanding your financing options and exploring various avenues can make this life-saving surgery more accessible and improve your overall health and well-being. It’s essential to have open and honest conversations with your surgical team, insurance provider, and financial institutions to ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs, coverage, and financing options available to you. By taking the time to research and plan, you can take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Interested in learning more about covering gastric sleeve costs through financing? Explore your options through our lending partner network. United Credit strives to keep the content shared on this blog accurate and up to date. You are urged to consult with business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers with respect to any information presented. Opinions expressed

Exploring Weight Loss Surgery Options: Understanding Procedures, Costs, & Financing

The battle with obesity can be difficult, and many individuals who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone often turn to weight loss surgery as a last resort. Bariatric surgery has become an increasingly popular and effective way to help people achieve significant weight loss and potentially improve their overall health. In this blog post, we will discuss various weight loss surgery options, how they work, their costs, and how to finance these procedures. Weight Loss Surgery Options Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) Gastric bypass is one of the most common weight loss surgery options. The procedure involves dividing the stomach into two parts, with the smaller part (called the pouch) being connected directly to the small intestine. This bypasses the larger part of the stomach and a portion of the small intestine, leading to reduced calorie and nutrient absorption.   How it works: Gastric bypass surgery works by restricting the amount of food that can be consumed and reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients. This leads to significant weight loss and improved health.   Cost: The cost of gastric bypass surgery ranges from $20,000 to $35,000, depending on factors such as location and surgeon expertise.   Sleeve Gastrectomy Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, involves the removal of approximately 80% of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped sleeve. This procedure does not involve rearranging the intestines.   How it works: The remaining smaller stomach restricts the amount of food that can be consumed, leading to weight loss. Additionally, the procedure reduces the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for stimulating hunger, which further helps control appetite.   Cost: The cost of sleeve gastrectomy ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on the location and surgeon’s expertise.   Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) In this procedure, an adjustable silicone band is placed around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch above the band and the remaining larger part of the stomach below. The surgeon can adjust this band to control the rate at which food passes through the stomach.   How it works: LAGB works by restricting the amount of food consumed, leading to weight loss. The adjustable nature of the band allows for a personalized approach to weight loss.   Cost: LAGB costs range from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on the location and surgeon’s expertise.   Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS) This complex procedure combines restrictive and malabsorptive elements. It involves removing a large portion of the stomach, similar to sleeve gastrectomy, and rerouting the small intestine. This creates a shorter path for food to travel, which results in reduced calorie and nutrient absorption.   How it works: BPD-DS works by restricting the amount of food that can be consumed and reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients. This leads to significant weight loss and improved health.   Cost: The cost of BPD-DS ranges from $25,000 to $50,000, depending on the location and surgeon’s expertise. Financing Weight Loss Surgery Weight loss surgery can be expensive, but there are several options to help cover the costs: Insurance Coverage Many health insurance plans cover weight loss surgery if deemed medically necessary. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to determine if your plan covers bariatric surgery and the requirements. You may need to provide documentation of previous weight loss attempts, such as diet and exercise programs, or undergo a medically supervised weight loss program before surgery is approved. Medical Loans Medical loans are specifically designed to finance medical procedures, including weight loss surgery. These loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and specialized medical financing companies. The interest rates and terms vary depending on the lender and your credit history. It’s essential to compare different loan options and choose the one that best suits your financial situation. Payment Plans Many bariatric surgery centers offer in-house financing or payment plans to help patients manage the cost of surgery. These plans typically involve an initial down payment followed by monthly installments. Be sure to discuss your options with your surgeon’s office and understand the terms and conditions before committing to a payment plan. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can use the funds in these accounts to pay for weight loss surgery. HSAs and FSAs are tax-advantaged savings accounts that allow you to set aside pre-tax income for medical expenses. Be sure to check the specific rules and regulations for your HSA or FSA to ensure that bariatric surgery is an eligible expense. Grants and Scholarships There are organizations, such as the Weight Loss Surgery Foundation of America (WLSFA), that offer grants and scholarships to individuals who need financial assistance for weight loss surgery. These programs often require an application and may have specific eligibility criteria. Be sure to research and apply for any grants or scholarships that may be available to you. Offering financing options is an effective strategy for maximizing customer retention and driving business growth. By providing customers with flexible payment solutions, you can enhance customer satisfaction, boost sales, and gain a competitive advantage. Stay focused on your customers’ needs, and continuously innovate and adapt your financing strategies to ensure that you are always meeting their expectations and fostering lasting relationships. Ready to get started on customer retention and engagement through innovative financing solutions? Enroll as a merchant and get started now. United Credit strives to keep the content shared on this blog accurate and up to date. You are urged to consult with business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers with respect to any information presented. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and have not been approved or otherwise endorsed by any financial or medical institution. This content is intended for informational purposes only. Follow us on social: Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram Twitter

Getting Ready For Your Weight Loss Surgery

Preparing for weight loss surgery begins months before the actual procedure. There are a number of factors you need to consider and work through with your surgeon beforehand, to ensure you get the maximum benefit from the surgery and avoid “rebound” weight gain. Establishing your post-surgical routine beforehand can help you lose weight faster, keep it off and create a more healthy lifestyle overall. In Part 2 of United Medical Credit’s series on bariatric surgery, we will give you tips and strategies for preparing for your surgery, as well as what to expect from your physician and what is expected from you.What questions should I ask? The first question you should ask is whether your surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery. This helps ensure that you are receiving quality care from a trained professional who scrupulously adheres to rigid standards of performance and patient care. Next, you should ask about the surgeon’s background. How many procedures has this surgeon performed during his or her career and in the past year, and what the incidence of side effects or complications amongst the surgeon’s patients is. Finally, you should inquire as to the success rate of the procedures the surgeon has performed. These questions will help you determine whether you are getting the best possible care before, during and after the procedure. In addition, asking these questions is an excellent way to help you find a surgeon with good experience and with whom you can expect to establish a solid professional rapport. If you are having difficulty finding a surgeon who meets your criteria, or if you need assistance with referrals, United Medical Credit is happy to help you find a surgeon with the skills and experience you expect to make your weight loss surgery as successful as it can possibly be. What lifestyle changes should I expect? Once you have found a surgeon, there will be certain expectations you have to follow. Many surgeons expect patients to try to lose at least 15 pounds prior to surgery. This not only makes the actual procedure easier and reduces the risk of complications but also demonstrates that you are fully committed to the surgery and the lifestyle changes that come with it. Your surgeon and insurance provider may have specific requirements for pre-operative preparation, but some of the most common are: Stop smoking: If you smoke, your surgeon will expect you to make a genuine effort to quit. This can help prevent post-operative complications and help you feel better overall. Stop drinking alcohol: Alcohol consumption leads to dehydration and over time may irritate the stomach, liver and digestive system. In addition, alcohol will affect you very differently after the surgery, so it is best to stop drinking altogether. Increase your protein intake: Protein makes you feel fuller for longer, and helps you retain muscle mass after the surgery while giving long-lasting energy. Change your diet: Adding healthy foods such as vegetables and low-fat proteins to your diet before surgery can help you adjust to the diet your surgeon requires after surgery. If you can adopt this diet in its entirety beforehand, that would be even better. Drink more water: Hydration is important at all times, but especially in preparation for bariatric surgery. Water can help you feel fuller, help detoxify your system and prevent kidney stones, which may occur during rapid weight loss. Exercise: Even walking just 20-30 minutes a day can help you get healthier and lose weight, especially in combination with a healthy diet. In addition, adopting a regular pre-surgery exercise regimen can help you set a routine and stick to it after the surgery, when exercise will become even more important to maintaining your rate of weight loss.   Some surgeons and insurance providers may also require you to undergo psychological evaluation and even a period of counseling, to prepare you for the very rapid shifts in your body. These can affect your moods and thoughts in unexpected ways. Also, you may be expected to attend educational seminars on a number of topics regarding the surgery, possible side effects and what to expect at various stages of post-operative recovery. Conclusion Doing your due diligence and trying to get yourself in the best possible condition before your surgery can help you achieve better results with less risk of side effects afterward. However, your attitude about the surgery and having reasonable expectations about the anticipated results after surgery is just as important. For this reason, education is frequently considered as crucial as the physical aspects of pre-operative preparation. For more information about what to expect from your bariatric surgery and how to get ready, United Medical Credit and your surgeon can help you find the answers to your questions. For more information about financing your weight loss surgery please call (855) 503-1800. Follow us on social: Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram Twitter

What are my weight loss surgery options?

Financing your bariatric surgery shouldn’t be difficult to obtain and manage. Fortunately, United Credit offers several financing options for those seeking weight loss surgery. June is Bariatric month at UMC. In our 3 part series, we explore the different types of weight loss surgeries, how to prepare your life before and after your surgery, and much more. Most people aren’t obese because they choose to be, or because of lifestyle factors, but because of genetic factors that influence whether their bodies are more or less efficient at converting carbs and fats into energy. Others may be obese because of an enforced, rather than chosen, lifestyle such as a long period of medically-necessary bed rest during pregnancy or while recovering from an accident. For many of these people, life used to be an endless treadmill of being shamed for their weight by doctors, friends, family, and thoughtless strangers on the street. Bariatric surgery has changed this picture, giving hope to millions of people who cannot lose weight any other way. As bariatric surgical procedures have advanced and criteria for eligibility and post-treatment protocols have become better defined, people who need to lose weight for serious medical reasons have found they have more options with less risk than ever before. However, surgical weight-loss procedures are never undertaken simply for vanity’s sake. These are done when a patient is at risk of severe medical complications or even death from being obese. The popularity of bariatric surgery peaked in 2008-2009, and then dropped, possibly owing to the economic uncertainty of the Great Recession. In 2008 and 2009, roughly 200,000 people underwent lap-band, sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric bypass surgery. In 2010, only about 150,000-160,000 people had these surgeries or about 1% of the people who would be considered viable candidates. However, bariatric procedures are rebounding in popularity, and are more affordable than ever. United Medical Credit is proud to help make bariatric surgery even more accessible and give more people a chance at a long and healthy life. What Are The Choices? The most popular kinds of bariatric surgery are: Lap Band: Laparoscopic stomach banding involves placing an adjustable silicone band filled with saline around the stomach, dividing it into two pouches that restrict how much food can be taken in at one time. This surgery is intended for people with a Body Mass Index of over 40, a BMI of 35 with at least one life-threatening complication involved, or who are at least 100 pounds over their ideal healthy weight. Gastric Sleeve: Gastric sleeving or sleeve gastrectomy involves altering the structure of the stomach itself by removing a portion of the stomach. This transforms the stomach from a bag into a sleeve, much like Lap Band surgery. However, gastric sleeving is a relatively new procedure carrying more risks than Lap Band surgery but less than gastric bypass. This procedure is not reversible. Gastric Bypass: By far the more invasive and risky procedure, gastric bypass surgery requires that the stomach be stapled to form a small food pouch. The lower bowel is divided and a portion of the bowel is attached to the pouch, bypassing the lower stomach and part of the small intestine. This surgery does feature a higher success rate than reversible bariatric procedures but also requires committed lifestyle changes on the part of the patient. Mini Gastric Bypass: Unlike regular gastric bypass, this procedure relies on a small loop of intestinal material to transmit digested food to the remainder of the digestive system, effectively bypassing six feet of the digestive tract. How Do I Know Which Surgery Is Right For Me? Only your doctors can say for sure which bariatric surgery will give you optimum results because every case is different. However, once you and your healthcare provider have determined which choice best meets your needs, United Credit is ready and waiting to help you find your way back to the healthy body you’ve been missing. Remember to check back for Part 2 of our Bariatric Surgery Series, including everything you need to know about what lifestyle changes you should prepare for before your surgery to reduce complication risk and get the maximum benefits from your procedure! Follow us on social: Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram Twitter