It's important to understand your financial responsibilities.

As you consider if weight loss surgery is right for you, it's important to understand your financial responsibilities. Most patients get approval from their insurance provider to cover the costs of their bariatric procedure. Other options, including self-pay, also are available.

Call your insurance carrier

Ask about your insurance benefits and if you have coverage for bariatric surgery. Remember, you have the right to know the details of your policy’s coverage. Insurance approval is often a lengthy and complicated process.

At Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction, we can help you understand your treatment options and what questions to ask of your insurance provider. Keep in mind that some insurance companies change their covered benefits from year to year. That's why it's important to ask questions, get answers in writing and work with your healthcare team to understand your treatment options that will help you achieve your weight loss goals.

If your insurance plan requires a referral prior to speaking with a specialist, contact your primary care physician and request a referral before you attend your first appointment. Also, many insurance companies require proof that you have tried other methods of weight loss prior to seeking surgery.

Understand the costs of surgery

Know all the costs before your surgery, particularly if you choose to pay for the surgery yourself. Self-payment may be your best option if your insurance plan or employer does not offer coverage or if you are not employed.

At Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction, we offer discounts for patients who do not have health insurance and choose the self-pay option for their treatment. Our bariatric information specialist can help you understand how the self-pay option works.