Weight Loss Services and Insurance Coverage
Our team is ready to assist you with insurance issues throughout your weight loss journey.
Insurance Coverage for Medical Weight Loss (Non-surgical) Patients
Before your first appointment, please call your insurance company (you can find the customer service number on your insurance card) to make sure your insurance covers the cost of medical nutrition therapy provided by a dietitian. To help you, we have provided a list of questions to ask your insurance company.
If your insurance does not cover medical nutrition therapy, you have the option to self-pay for your treatment.
Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Surgery Patients
Before your first appointment, please call your insurance company to determine if weight loss surgery is covered. One of our team members will ask you to complete an insurance screening questionnaire prior to your first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Services
Coverage for weight loss surgery depends on your health plan. Some plans require that you enroll in a medical weight loss program for up to one year before surgery.
In most cases, yes, although your plan may not cover all types of medications. To be a candidate for weight loss medication, you must have a BMI of 30 or more, or have a BMI of at least 27 along with one obesity-related comorbidity.
At UChicago Medicine, we will work with your insurance company to determine which medications are covered and find the most effective and affordable option for you. Many new drugs are now available, including some with weight loss results similar to sleeve gastrectomy.
The timeline for each insurance company is different. Some health plans may approve surgery within two to four weeks, while others may have a lengthy approval process. For example, Medicaid typically requires that patients see a dietitian once a month for six months before approving weight loss surgery.
During your first visit with us, a team member will explain your health plan’s requirements and answer any questions you may have. Once you are approved for surgery, an insurance coordinator at UChicago Medicine can assist you with any issues that arise.
In most cases, yes. This surgery is often deemed medically necessary and approved by health plans.
Yes. Whether you are considering a medical (non-surgical) or surgical weight loss option, please call your insurance company at the customer service number on your insurance card so you know what services are covered.
Also, please let us know if you change jobs or health plans because your coverage may change.