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Because gastric bypass surgery is not a cosmetic procedure
and is performed only when medically necessary, many insurance
companies cover all or part of the costs involved for
the laparoscopic and/or open version of the surgery. Your
insurance plan may require you to obtain a referral
from your primary care provider before you come for
your initial consultation at the Obesity Treatment Center.
If that is the case, ask your primary care provider
to include the ICD-9 code 278.01(morbid obesity) in
the referral.
As every insurance plan is different, it is your responsibility
to call your insurance company and inquire about your
plan's coverage and pre-certification or authorization
requirements. Refer to CPT Code #43846, which identifies
the type of surgery, when talking with your insurer.
You should confirm that UMDNJ-University Hospital and
Dr. Asha Bale are participating providers in your insurance
plan.
If you are interested in paying out-of-pocket for
the procedure, the fees at the Obesity Treatment Center
are in the $20,000 range (depending upon the services
needed) and are payable in full prior to the surgery.
For
a detailed discussion on how to deal with various insurance
issues, visit Spotlight Health.
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The
Surgical Option
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