Sleeve Gastrectomy has its own CPT code for 2010!

[jeanellen1b 0]

43775 Laparoscopy, surgical, gastric restrictive procedure; longitudinal gastrectomy (ie, sleeve gastrectomy)

Source: http://www.hdmcorp.com/pdf/CPT%20Codes%20Effective%2001012010.pdf

Now let's hope that more health plans will start considering the VGS a regular procedure and not "experimental and investigational"

[thinoneday 445]

I have United Health Care and some folks state that they have it paid by the insurance, however, mine does not pay for it and the reason is that my employer opted not to have it included . . . so it has alot to do with the employers input too. . .doesn't that suck?

[WingRider 1]

I understand that it is frustrating that an employer would opt out of bariatric procedures, but at least you have your other health needs covered. Be thankful for that. I know that as soon as I get my sleeve in Mexico Aetna(my current insurer) will start covering the sleeve procedure. It will just be my luck, but I don't want to wait any longer.

Bill

[geobaby 0]

WAIT..... so I went to the link and checked it out but where did you get this link??? And is it true? that the sleeve is goin to be passed on jan 1 ??

[Bambi 0]

It is true that not all United plans cover the surgery. It's open enrollment time, so I plan to switch insurance companies so that the surgery will be covered. I'm hoping to do all the pre-op testing in December and have the surgery in January with my new insurance.....I've scheduled my initial conversation with the surgeon for two weeks from now.....

[LAN2k 18]

It is true that not all United plans cover the surgery. It's open enrollment time, so I plan to switch insurance companies so that the surgery will be covered. I'm hoping to do all the pre-op testing in December and have the surgery in January with my new insurance.....I've scheduled my initial conversation with the surgeon for two weeks from now.....

Best wishes to you Bambi....stay connected and keep us informed.

[blondie1007 51]

It is true that not all United plans cover the surgery. It's open enrollment time, so I plan to switch insurance companies so that the surgery will be covered. I'm hoping to do all the pre-op testing in December and have the surgery in January with my new insurance.....I've scheduled my initial conversation with the surgeon for two weeks from now.....

Did you ever switch insurance companies to be able to have the surgery? If so, were pre-existing conditions covered?

[Bambi 0]

I did switch my insurance in January and had the surgery January 27. I had no problems with switching or payment. I didn't have any pre-existing conditions, other then hypothyroid, so I can't answer that part of the question. Good luck and as most everyone else says on the board - I'm so glad I did it...Down 80lbs in less then 6months.