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Understanding Bariatric Surgery
What have YOU got to lose?
What to expect from bariatric surgery:
Patient Education
The first step is to supply potential patients with
detailed information about bariatric surgery.
Hopefully, this web site is one such source.
Initial Screening
Next, the patient must demonstrate an understanding
in general terms of what the program involves. The
patient must have insurance coverage or other
financial means to pay for the procedure.
Initial Consultation
At this meeting, the patient meets with the surgeon
and his/her staff. At this meeting patients will be
able to ask the doctor any medical questions they
might have.
Insurance Application
After the initial consultation, staff generally work
with the physician to draft a letter to the
insurance company or HMO explaining why the
procedure is medically necessary. Staff then work
with the patient in getting approval for the
procedure. Legal Assistance is available for
individuals seeking specialized assistance in
fighting repeated insurance denials.
Insurance Approval
Upon insurance approval, a surgery date is
determined. Pre-operative testing and a
psycho-social evaluation are performed.
Aftercare
The average length of hospitalization after surgery
is three to five days. After the procedure is
performed, patients begin a new life style, of which
healthy eating behavior is an important component.
Most patients reach healthy weight levels from
twelve to eighteen months after surgery.
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