There are some practical issues that folks going on a weight loss journey need to know relating to the costs of surgery.
My first piece of advice is to seriously consider getting private health insurance. Currently Medicare has item numbers assigned to assist patients who have functional problems relating to loose skin following weight loss greater than 5 points of BMI. These functional issues might relate to hygiene, rashes or in the case of breasts, neck and shoulder trouble. Once you have been assessed by our team, and I believe that you qualify for one of these MBS item codes, your private health fund may contribute to your care. You have to look into these issues for yourself as there are so many policies, each with its own exclusions and inclusions. Our team can let you know which items numbers might apply during your surgery so you can check if you are covered. Unfortunately, there are some out of pocket expenses which are not claimable, but we provide these for you in a written quote and spend time explaining them to you.
We also appreciate that you might wish to have several procedures over a couple of years and to assist, we have produced a schedule of costs and MBS item codes that we hope will help with financial planning. We do not charge any out of pocket expense for any scar remedial work that has a functional problem (like a tight scar).
The second thing to do is to engage your employer and family before you start, both for financial and emotional support. We provide a 24/7 on call emergency service, but it’s important that you have an adequate amount of sick leave to enable you to recover.
I hope this blog about weight loss surgery has been helpful. Our weight loss patients are the ones that we get to know the best, as we see them for many months/years on their journey. It gives me tremendous satisfaction to be a part of that journey with them. If you think I can help you, please make an appointment to meet with me.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.