If you used Medicare for your lapband.......

[GayleTX 1]

I'm trying to help a couple of friends locate a bariatric surgeon who accepts Medicare insurance.........how do we find one? We've called and looked at a number of surgeon websites in the Dallas area and haven't found a one yet who will take it, altho I've seen many people on boards mention that Medicare paid for their surgery.

Can you call Medicare and ask them? How do they know where to call?

Any guidance will be appreciated.

[boredryu 0]

on the seminar they answered that question and none of surgeons like working with medicare. It's just such a hassle (their words) but he did say something about the big hospitals taking medicare in the dfw area.

I'm sure their general surgery surgeons (that work in the hospital) don't mind taking medicare, it's not like they are doing the paperwork.

[CallMeAl 0]

You might want to try Dr. Cribbins or Dr. Hamm in Plano. They operate at Plano Presby which is a Center for Excellance which I believe Medicare requires. If they don't, the bariatric coordinator at Plano Presby might know.

[grossefemme 0]

On the back of the Medicare card there's an 800 number. Call and tell them you're looking for a bariatric surgeon in your area that accepts Medicare.

That way it's only ONE phone call and you can get your information!

I have Medicare and was banded on 5/5/08. No 6 month diet, very easy.

[moonshadow2468 0]

Hi, I was banded on 3/25. Medicare paid the hospital bill, but I paid the surgeon ($2500) probably cost another $500 on the consultants and deductibles. I wanted a really good surgeon. Ask him what he/she would charge if you were self pay. Love my band!

[Kat56 0]

You might want to try Dr. Cribbins or Dr. Hamm in Plano. They operate at Plano Presby which is a Center for Excellance which I believe Medicare requires. If they don't, the bariatric coordinator at Plano Presby might know.

That is the key, it should be a "Center for Excellence" and Medicare covers it with no problem. I am going to have my surgery at a Center for Excellence, however, I don't live in the Dallas area, I'm way up North.

Kat