Bariatric Surgery in Boston
After undergoing various weight loss programs and dieting that prove ineffective, many people turn to bariatric surgery as an effective way of reducing weight.
Bariatric surgeries like gastric sleeve are very effective in improving, resolving, and preventing obesity-related issues that might result in health concerns like heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
However, it can be costly. A 2018 study found that Massachusetts was ranked fifth for bariatric surgery, with a rate of 0.6% for its residents with obesity. If you are considering bariatric surgery in Boston, we will discuss its average cost and factors influencing this price.
Find the best bariatric surgeons in Boston, Massachusetts here.
Cost of Bariatric Surgery in Boston
Bariatric Surgeon | Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass | Gastric Balloon | Gastric Banding Removal |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dr. Deborah Abeles, M.D. | Not Mentioned | Not Mentioned | Not Available | Not Mentioned |
Bruce Bodner, M.D. | Not Mentioned | Not Mentioned | Not Available | Not Available |
Donald T. Hess, M.D. | Not Mentioned | Not Mentioned | Not Available | Not Mentioned |
Caroline Apovian, M.D. | Not Mentioned | Not Mentioned | Not Available | Not Available |
Dr. Laura Doyon, M.D. | Not Mentioned | Not Mentioned | Not Available | Not Available |
Average Cost of Bariatric Surgery in the USA
Knowing the average cost sets your mind at ease when opting for bariatric surgery. According to Money, bariatric surgery could cost from $7,500 to $30,000 without insurance. However, this price depends on various factors, including the hospital and your location.
What Does the Cost Usually Include?
A cohort study conducted at Boston Medical Center found that bariatric surgery was associated with significant weight loss and improved macrovascular and metabolic outcomes. Participants had a mean follow-up period of 5.9 months and lost 17.5% of their initial weight.
The study included 259 participants with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and 48 with sleeve gastrectomy or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. But, even with this effectiveness, it is essential to know what the cost usually includes.
The cost of your bariatric surgery depends on various factors, such as your type. Common surgeries include vertical gastric banding, adjustable gastric banding, sleeve gastronomy, gastric bypass, gastric balloon, etc. Each of these operations has its different fees.
Also, there are the surgeon fees. This fess usually varies depending on your location, the surgeon’s expertise, and the procedure’s complexity. Additionally, your chosen hospital also affects the costs. Costs vary by hospital, including the hospital rooms, the operation, and other fees.
Other additional costs include consultant
fees, device fees, surgical assistant’s fees, anesthesiologist fees, and
follow-up procedures fees for gastric bands.
Do Boston Bariatric Surgeons Include Insurance?
Massachusetts General Hospital’s Weight Center and Boston Medical Center offer insurance coverage for weight loss surgery, and they have extensive experience performing these procedures.
It’s important to note that while insurance coverage is available, the approval process can be complex, and it’s advisable to work closely with healthcare providers and insurance companies to navigate the process effectively.
There are various steps to get insurance coverage for bariatric surgery. They include:
●
Reading the coverage certificate
your insurance provider issued to you under the law. Consult with your
insurance provider if you don’t have one.
●
Obtain a referral from your
primary care physician to see a bariatric surgeon.
●
Organize your medical records and
your weight loss efforts, which include dieting.
●
Always document all visits to the
healthcare professionals for weight loss programs or obesity issues.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery changes the intestine and
stomach and induces weight loss. Various studies have shown that operation has
reduced patients’ risk of premature death by 30% – 50%. But, the procedure can
be expensive. Understanding the tips above can help you make an informed
decision.