Does Medicare Pay For Lap Band Fills?

[Violet953 46]

Hey Everyone,

I've been reading old posts and saw somebody say that Medicare doesn't pay for fills...but that was in like 09 I think...Does anybody know if that has changed? And if not, do you know how much it usually costs for a fill appointment? Up until I joined this forum, embarrassing as it is I actually had no idea there were fills! I just thought my insurance would pay for the follow up appointments and I'd be all set...Also, I live in Connecticut and I'm having the surgery at the Backus Weight Loss Center. Thanks in advance.

-Stephanie

[kll724 3,055]

Medicare pays part of my fill, and the rest is picked up by my insurance. I live in Florida.Hope that helps. Karen

[Corrigan 75]

So far, between Medicare and Anthem, they've picked up everything. I hope it stays that way!

[marfar7 1,533]

Medicare paid for the first year of fills (4). They came with the surgery - of which I only paid 10% of. Now, I pay for them ($160). I thought Medicare was the same all around, but I guess not.

Marci

[jlblove 0]

Yes ~ Medicare HAS paid for my surgery and ALL of my fills!!! I had my surgery 24 May 2010, lost 71 lbs (by 17 Mar 2011) and have been doing GREAT with keeping it off! I am very blessed that Medicare has paid for everything, too (couldn't have done this otherwise). You WILL have to make absolutely sure that the clinic/doctor you're going to accepts Medicare and what (if any) restrictions they may have on it. I live in Keller, TX (by Ft. Worth) & the reason I chose my clinic (Ft. Worth LapBand) was because they took Medicare (only clinic in area, at that time, that did). I am completely happy with my clinic and the whole staff there. So, do your research to make sure the clinic takes Medicare (including exactly what's covered), what's required by Medicare to qualify, call Medicare to confirm what you're told and be sure to follow all the rules! GOOD LUCK!!!!!

[Violet953 46]

Thanks everybody! And yes, they do take medicare. They told me that at the seminar last year. I've done everything they've told me to and I'm very close to getting my surgery!!!!!!!