#144 How to Save Time and Money Choosing Your Bariatric Surgeon

Are you considering bariatric surgery? It can be so confusing, right? And downright scary. How much will it cost you? Who’s the best surgeon for you? How do you know if the surgeon is any good? What about the right hospital or surgical center? What services should you look for? Bariatric dietitians Gayle and Isabel join me to share information to help you save time and money in your selection of the right surgeon and hospital or surgical center.

Podcast Guests: 

Bariatric Dietitian Isabel Maples, RD

Bariatric Coordinator

UVA Health in Haymarket, Virginia

Email: [email protected] 

Gayle Brazzi Smith MS, RDN, CSOWM, LDN

Registered & Licensed Dietitian

Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Institute

Orlando, FL

Email: [email protected]

Website: OrlandoHealth.com/Bariatrics  

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Resources:

Common CPT codes for insurance:

Sleeve - 43775

Bypass - 43644

Revision- 43659

Band removal - 43774

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There’s a lot to think about when you consider bariatric surgery. It can be so confusing and downright scary. There is a lot of information you need to find out before surgery. How much is this going to cost? Who’s paying for what? Who’s the best surgeon? What type of services should be included? We’re going to answer a lot of these questions and share things for you to think about. It’s so important to know up front what you can expect and what’s expected of you. Services and fees vary so you want to do homework to prevent any surprises and unexpected costs. 

Topics we discuss:

One of the first things that comes to my mind is…..

Do you have insurance coverage? 

If you do, find out if your insurance company has any specific requirements that your surgeon, hospital or surgical center must meet. Isabel, you spend quite a bit of time keeping up with insurance nuances. What questions should you be asking your insurance company?

Discussion of bariatric procedure codes...listed above for use with your insurance company

Coverage for nutrition consults among insurance companies as of course, I think this is very important.

Credentials matter. the MBSAQIP program and programs of distinction

What to look for in a well rounded program

Experience, beside manner fees