Why Isn't Medicare Covering Cost of Lap Placement of Gastric Band?

[ItsGottaGo! 0]

On my statement from the hospital, there is still a charge of about $2,900 for "Lap Placement of Gastric Band" that apparently Medicare has not covered. Do they not cover the procedure laparscopically? I am confused. I am going to call tomorrow, but just wondering if anyone has this information tonight. Thank you.

[DrewsLou 3]

Did you have this done at a "Medicare Certified Center of Excellence"? From what I've heard that's the only way they cover it.

[ItsGottaGo! 0]

Yes, I did. I specifically went to this facility because they were on the Medicare list for Center of Excellence. They seem to have covered the rest of the procedure, but it looks like they just aren't paying for the laprscopic placement of the band. Maybe they only pay for "open" placement. I will have to call tomorrow and find out what is going on.

[DrewsLou 3]

Let us know what you find out!

[ItsGottaGo! 0]

I just went to Medicare website. Actually, it says that it DOES cover laparscopic placement but does NOT cover open placement. I hope I can get this straightened out.