The Burdens Of Being Overweight Or Obese
Excess weight is not only uncomfortable, it also imposes a variety of financial and physical burdens. Overweight and obese people are at a higher risk for many health problems including stroke, diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer. Financially, obesity may involve costs for things such as medications and extra medical treatments. Bariatric surgery is an investment in your life that can help you make a change for the better.
How To Choose A Weight Loss Doctor
You are beginning an extended journey of weight loss, and its important to choose a bariatric surgeon who you trust and like, since youll hopefully be developing a lifelong relationship with this person. In addition to reviewing their educational background and training, we suggest you pick a physician who is a board-certified in surgery and a member of prestigious medical associations like the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. It is also important to choose a surgeon who practices at a Bariatric Center of Excellence that includes a comprehensive pre- and post-operative program. The initial consultation is the perfect opportunity to get to know a prospective surgeon, learn about their philosophy, ask lots of questions, and feel out their demeanor. One of the questions we suggest you ask is about support programs: do they offer nutrition and fitness counseling and guidance? Having this available will help you achieve the desired outcome and keep the weight off long term. Ultimately, you will benefit from someone who is compassionate, highly educated, and dedicated to patient care.
Does Louisiana Medicaid Cover Weight Loss Surgery
Louisiana is known for its eclectic culture and unique cuisine. Unfortunately, residents of the state are not immune to the nationwide epidemic of obesity. Obesity can be caused by array of lifestyle and medical factors, and treatment options were limited until procedures like bariatric surgery were introduced. Bariatric surgery provides a treatment option that utilizes the bodys existing structure and processes to eliminate excess weight and prevent obesity by reducing the size of the stomach or by re-routing the digestive system to reduce fat absorption.
Because this type of surgical procedure is still relatively new and is only practiced by specialists, it has been sometimes difficult to receive for Louisiana residents who did not have coverage under traditional insurance or who were on Medicaid. Additionally, Louisiana did not have specialty care centers available that dealt with weight loss surgery, leaving access to such care out of reach for many Louisiana residents.
Does Louisiana Medicaid Cover Weight Loss Surgery?Fortunately, as of 2018, Louisiana residents who qualify for state-sponsored healthcare benefits are now able to receive coverage for weight loss surgery. One of the first facilities to provide this type of surgery has been the University Medical Center-New Orleans, but state healthcare benefits programs in Louisiana may also provide coverage at other facilities.
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What Questions Should I Ask My Bariatric Surgeon
The initial consultation is the ideal opportunity to ask many questions and learn more about which procedure or procedures you should consider, what the surgeons practice philosophy is, and much more. Some of the questions we advise our patients to ask a prospective weight loss doctor include:
Where did you receive your medical degree?What kind of additional training have you received?How long have you been performing these procedures?Have you had any complications?What medical organizations are you a member of?Are you board-certified in bariatric surgery?What weight loss procedures do you offer?Which procedure do you recommend for me based on my needs?Are there any alternatives to consider?Do you offer nutrition and fitness counseling?How can I achieve the optimal outcome?How often will I be returning for visits after my operation?How much weight loss can I expect?Will medical insurance help cover the cost of my treatment?Do you offer medical financing?
You may have a number of additional questions you wish to ask, and a prospective surgeon will want to answer your questions to the best of their ability.
If you would like more information on the biography and credentials of our bariatric surgeon, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. James Parrish, please contact us today.
How To Get Medicaid Approval For Weight Loss Surgery
If the Medicaid provided by your state covers bariatric surgery, you must consult your physician. Medicaid accepts coverage when there is a medical need for the surgery. It is vital to have a physician who can share relevant information for the medical necessity of bariatric surgery for the patient. Further, to assess the situation, a physician can recommend the patient to approved surgeons.
Approved surgeons help you understand the surgerys basics and different options you may have. After you make a decision, you need to go through some tests and then consult the Medicaid office for pre-approval of the surgery. The process is time-consuming and requires patience as well as perseverance.Before approval, you may have to attend classes to understand the surgery, nutritional requirements, lifestyle changes, and exercises, which are mandatory post the operation. This ensures that the patient understands all implications of the surgery and whats essential to make it successful.
With necessary provisions, you may get approval from Medicaid. These provisions can further include additional classes or further testing. After approval from Medicaid, your surgeon needs to determine your ability to undergo the procedure. This can include medical preparation, blood work, and X-rays. Finally, the surgery is booked. Hence, you get a step closer to a healthier lifestyle and your weight goals.
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Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For You
Knowing your weight loss surgery options is important. There is not a single solution, but rather a combination of methods to treat obesity. These tools are part of a comprehensive approach to help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, while improving your health. The right combination of tools and lifestyle changes are essential to a successful obesity treatment plan.
Bariatric surgical procedures cause weight loss by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold, causing malabsorption of nutrients, or by a combination of both gastric restriction and malabsorption. The most common bariatric surgery procedures are gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric band, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. Each surgery has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Powered By Bariatric Specialists
Our Bariatric Surgery Department is accredited as a Comprehensive Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center by the American College of Surgeons and American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery‘s Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Quality Improvement Program . We believe surgery is a tool, not a cure, to help patients lead a healthy life.
Along with the surgeons, Philip Gachassin, MD, Dennis Eschete, MD, and Robert Autin, MD, the bariatric support team includes a registered nurse, dietitian, patient advocate, behavior modification educator, licensed practical counselor and certified personal trainer.
Types of surgery:
- Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band
- Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve
- Laparoscopic Duodenal Switch
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The Surgical Weight Loss Program At Ochsner
Bariatric Surgery is a tool that aids in weight loss, resolution of co-morbid conditions and increased quality of life for patients. In order to achieve and maintain success following bariatric surgery, proper diet, vitamin supplementation and daily exercise are essential. Our staff have designed a nutrition binder that will help patients adhere to that success before and after surgery.
Bariatric Surgery & Weight Loss In New Orleans
If you’ve struggled to lose excess weight, bariatric surgery may be the first step in a journey toward a new chapter of your life. Bariatric surgery, also called weight loss surgery, changes the size of the stomach, small intestine, or both to assist with weight loss.
Numerous scientific studies have shown that bariatric surgery, combined with lifestyle modification, leads to significantly better and longer lasting weight loss when compared to lifestyle modifications alone.
The Center for Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery at University Medical Center is supported by a multi-disciplinary team that includes bariatric surgeons, dietitians, behavioral therapists and nurse practitioners dedicated to helping our patients achieve their weight loss goals.
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Weight Loss Surgery At Umc For Medicaid Patients
Recently, doctors at University Medical Center have been telling potential patients about a new weight loss program.
So many people are interested in this new opportunity, that Wednesday’s class filled up instantly, but the new clinic will have future classes that you can go to.
For years, Weight Loss Wednesday has highlighted the many success stories with bariatric surgery. Studies show surgery to make the stomach smaller, and alter hunger hormones, is more effective for long-term weight loss and health than diet and exercise alone.
However, for people in Louisiana who could not afford the more than $20,000 price tag, or whose private insurance would not pay, this often life-saving procedure was off limits. Now, for the first time, it’s available for people with Medicaid.
“I really believe we’re going to change the health care landscape in Louisiana by offering this service to this patient population,” said Dr. Christopher DuCoin, Director of Bariatric Surgery at UMC and Chief of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery at Tulane.
Already more than 600 people are waiting for the doors of the new clinic and operating room to open.
“It’s amazing. There’s literally nothing that weight loss surgery doesn’t help,” Dr. DuCoin added.
And lives are saved, as people live longer and better.
The program at UMC can also advocate for people who have private insurance, that won’t pay for the surgery.
Free Seminar Dates through the end of 2018 are below:
Wednesday, June 13 @ 5:30-6:30
Meet Dr James Parrish
Dr. James Parrish is board-certified in General Surgery and a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. He has devoted his career to helping people overcome the physical and emotional effects of obesity, and he is committed to providing patients with comprehensive care to ensure that they lose weight safely and effectively. Dr. Parrish believes that education and a solid support system from the first consultation to follow-up care is essential to providing patients the assistance they need as they embark on a new path toward a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Dr. Parrish has over 19 years of experience with minimally invasive abdominal surgery and has undergone additional post graduate training in bariatric surgery since 2003. Since that time, Dr. Parrish has performed hundreds of bariatric procedures in Central Louisiana.
Thank you Dr. Parrish for giving me my life back. I have been a very persistent patient, Dr Parrish has been awesome. I have lost over 90 lb. And before Ive been very sick. Now Im well again.
Michelle Hoben
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Revisional Weight Loss Surgery
Over the years and for various reasons, some patients may experience weight regain following their initial weight loss procedure. The Surgical Specialists of Louisiana are experts at Revisional Weight Loss Surgery which can be performed laparoscopically or endoscopically. If you have experienced inadequate weight loss, insufficient resolution of comorbidities or medical complications due to weight loss surgery you may be a candidate for either minimally invasive or incisionless revisional surgery.
Surgical Weight Loss Designed For Results
We offer preoperative education as well as post-operative support for patients looking for healthier options. Not only will we guide you through the steps necessary to have bariatric surgery, but we also provide the necessary tools that are fundamental to your post-operative success for many years to come after your surgery. Nutrition, exercise, behavior modification counseling and support groups, are among the resources offered to ensure your success after surgery.
Our goal is to offer a personalized program that will help you lose weight and succeed in reaching your goals. There are many different types of weight loss surgeries, and Ochsner Lafayette General has the most comprehensive choices on the market.
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A Team Dedicated To Your Weight Loss Journey
Lindsey Poe, PsyD
Dr. Lindsey Poe is a licensed clinical psychologist who earned her doctorate at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center with a focus on the connection between physical health conditions and mental wellness. Dr. Poe is a member of the American Psychological Association and specializes in psychological assessment and group therapy. As part of the bariatric surgery team, Dr. Poe will conduct psychosocial evaluations and group therapy as individuals prepare for the next step in achieving their weight loss goal.
Emily Alker, RD, LDN
Emily Alker is a licensed dietitian/nutritionist and an integrated health member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Emily has been a bariatric dietitian since 2015, and a weight management dietetic practice group member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Emily graduated from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor in Nutritional Sciences. She is passionate about partnering with her patients about their nutritional choices to help them improve their lifestyles and overall well-being.
Bariatric surgery is a tool designed to help you achieve your weight loss goals, but it cannot and will not happen without your cooperation.
Does My Medicaid Cover Obesity Screenings
Obesity screenings are a mandatory benefit for Medicaid beneficiaries under the age of 21. The Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment benefit includes obesity screening and is required coverage for all state Medicaid programs.
Some states may also provide this benefit for beneficiaries aged 21 and over, though not every state does.
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Ochsner Surgical Weight Loss Program Locations
- New Orleans
- Mississippi
- Chalmette
While we strive to serve all qualified patients, there are certain insurance plans that do not have sufficient bariatric surgery benefits, and some plans that we do not accept. Currently the Bariatric Surgery Clinic does not accept Medicaid or any Managed Medicaid Programs . However, surgery is still an option for otherwise qualified patients at a cash price. All benefits are reviewed by our Patient Financial Services team prior to surgery, and cash prices and financing options may be discussed with the Bariatric Financial Counselor at, or prior to initial consultation.
Does Medicaid Cover Bariatric Surgery
In several cases, weight loss surgeries become essential for individuals. Dealing with obesity is not easy. Moreover, there can be cases when it gets out of control. For the general well-being of an individual, surgery is the only solution. For attaining a healthy lifestyle and weight, bariatric surgery might be the sole answer. Yet, these surgeries might cost slightly higher than youd think. Depending on the location, type of surgery, and the patient, the cost for bariatric surgery can range between $15,000 to $30,000.
In most cases, Medicaid covers weight loss surgery. In this case, the patient must fulfill the basic criteria for coverage. The same may vary between states and needs to be verified before proceeding. Bariatric surgeries are not extensively mentioned in guidelines for Medicaid coverage but handled differently for different cases. You need to work with your physician to discuss the process of approval for Medicaid coverage.
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If You Live In Louisiana And Need A Surgeon That Accepts Medicaid Read Below
Members Who Like This Post
Hi All!
After years of trying to find a surgeon to do a revision for me and will accept Medicaid. I found one. Dr. Ducoin in New Orleans Affliated with Tulane Medical Center. Now here’s the catch. You have to contact University medical center because that’s where he does all the surgeries at but the killer part is you have to attend the informational first and there is a waiting list? other than that, he qualified to do Sleeves, Gastric Bypass, and Revisions. Here is the number to university medical center 504-962-6262. From there you will be placed on a waiting list. Good Luck!
I’m so happy right now I can scream!!! I gave up my job and benefits to persue a better position but without benefits. And it’s been a struggle to find someone who would take it. I had my surgery in 2005 I’m long overdue for a revision as I have gained weight again and need a reset.
Criteria For Coverage Of Surgery Costs
In order for Medicaid to cover the cost of your surgery and the associated surgeon visits, you must meet the requirements below.
- Over the age of 13 for a female and 15 for a male.
- Body Mass Index must be over 35 with at least one comorbidity.
- Co-morbidities include sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes.
You Might Not Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery Coverage if:
- Long-term steroid use
- Inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis, pregnancy, or non-compliance with medical treatment.
- Psychological treatment that might interfere with post-operative compliance with diet and lifestyle.
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Breakdown Of The Cost Of Gastric Sleeve With Dr Borland
The cost for gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Borland is $11,300. This is less than the national average of $16,800 its also less than the $15,400 average in Louisiana. The price includes a number of services:
- Initial office visit fee of $200
- Surgeons fee of $4,500
- Assistant surgeons fee of $1,000
- Anesthesia fee of $600
- New Iberia Surgery Center fee of $5,000
There are some things the price does not cover, including:
- The hotel stay for 2-3 days during recovery
- Travel to and from New Iberia, Louisiana
- Pre-op testing, if required
We are able to offer affordable pricing for the gastric sleeve because we treat it as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to avoid expensive hospital bills. Youll need to pay for your stay in a nearby hotel for a couple days during the recovery period, but this cost is significantly less than staying in a hospital.
