Interested in taking the next step to live your happiest and healthiest life? If your insurance covers surgical weight loss, below are testing and documents you should start completing:
Save some time when coming to our office by downloading the documents below, filling them out and bringing them with you to your appointment.
Be sure to contact your insurance carrier to verify whether your plan includes weight loss benefits, as coverage for bariatrics services can vary. Some insurance plans may not cover bariatric surgery or related treatments, so it's important to confirm your specific benefits and eligibility.
Cash pay and self-pricing options are available. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment.
INTEGRIS Health offers bariatric support groups led by a multidisciplinary team of dietitians, nurses, exercise specialists, psychologists, doctors, and former patients. Groups meet online from 6–7 p.m. on the third Monday of each month, covering topics like the latest in bariatric surgery, long-term lifestyle changes, nutrition and exercise. To get the link or an updated schedule, call 405-951-2131.
After bariatric surgery, patients typically lose 40–75% of their excess body weight, with the most rapid loss occurring in the first 18–24 months. Long-term success depends on factors like pre-surgery weight, commitment to nutritional guidelines and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Surgery has been shown to improve or resolve many obesity-related conditions, including Type II diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension and abnormal cholesterol levels with studies showing diabetic patients who underwent gastric bypass had a mortality rate three times lower than those treated medically alone.
Ultimately, the patient's own adherence to post-operative instructions plays the greatest role in achieving and maintaining results.
What can I start working on before the program?
Recommendations include dietary adjustments, completing paperwork, attending support groups and quitting smoking or nicotine use.
What documentation is required for a history of obesity?
Consecutive years with progress notes on height and weight may be required by some insurance companies.
Does my insurance cover weight loss surgery?
More insurance companies are covering bariatric surgery, but it is essential to verify whether your specific plan includes this coverage.
How can I verify my insurance benefits for weight loss surgery?
Call the number on the back of your insurance card or provide the necessary information for the program to verify the benefits for you.
Are visits with dietitians and exercise physiologists covered by insurance?
These visits are not covered by insurance and require a fee.
What are the costs associated with the surgical weight loss program?
Costs depend on insurance coverage, hospital and anesthesia fees and other financial obligations, which will be outlined during the initial consult.
Can I start making payments before surgery?
Yes, payments can be made prior to surgery. The full amount must be paid at least a week before the surgery.
How long will I be in the surgical weight loss program?
The duration depends on factors like insurance requirements, medical tests, controlling underlying diagnoses and non-surgical weight loss documentation.
What medical tests are required before surgery?
Tests may include labs, a chest x-ray, EKG and others based on your specific health history.
What if I don't have a primary care physician?
The program can help connect you with a primary care doctor supportive of surgical weight loss.
Can I attend support groups before the initial consult with the doctor?
Yes, support group attendance is encouraged and details can be found in the support group section above.
What if I'm struggling with smoking or nicotine use?
The program can connect you with resources to help with quitting smoking or nicotine use.