Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery

Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery: The Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Obesity is a major health problem in the United States, affecting nearly 40% of adults. It is also a leading cause of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a proven and effective treatment for obesity and its related diseases. However, it can be expensive and not covered by most insurance plans. This is where Cigna Insurance comes in. In this article, we will discuss Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery and everything you need to know about it.

What is Cigna Insurance?

Cigna is a global health services company that offers health insurance and related services to millions of people worldwide. They offer a variety of health plans, including employer-sponsored plans, individual and family plans, Medicare plans, and Medicaid plans. Cigna also offers coverage for weight loss surgery under certain circumstances.

What is Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery is a surgical procedure that involves changing the anatomy of the digestive system to help individuals lose weight. There are several types of weight loss surgery, including Gastric Bypass, Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch. The goal of weight loss surgery is to reduce the size of the stomach, limit the amount of food that can be eaten, and/or reduce the absorption of nutrients.

Who is Eligible for Weight Loss Surgery?

To be eligible for weight loss surgery, individuals must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one co-morbidity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Candidates for weight loss surgery must also have a history of unsuccessful attempts at diet and exercise, and be committed to making long-term lifestyle changes to improve their health.

Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery Coverage

Cigna Insurance covers weight loss surgery under certain circumstances. The coverage may vary depending on the specific plan and location. Generally, Cigna covers weight loss surgery for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria mentioned above. However, prior authorization is required, and the surgery must be performed by a Cigna-approved provider.

Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery Requirements

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, there are other requirements that individuals must meet to qualify for Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery coverage. These requirements include:

– A comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, including a surgeon, a psychologist, a dietitian, and a primary care physician.

– Participation in a medically supervised weight loss program for at least six months.

– Documentation of unsuccessful attempts at non-surgical weight loss methods.

– Comorbid conditions that are likely to improve with weight loss surgery.

– The ability to comply with post-surgical lifestyle changes, including a lifelong commitment to a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery Cost

The cost of weight loss surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery, the provider, and the location. Cigna Insurance may cover some or all of the cost of weight loss surgery, depending on the specific plan and location. However, individuals may still be responsible for copays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses.

How to Get Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery Coverage

To get Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery coverage, individuals must first check if their plan covers weight loss surgery and if they meet the eligibility criteria. They must also obtain prior authorization from Cigna before undergoing the surgery. This requires a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team and documentation of unsuccessful attempts at non-surgical weight loss methods. Individuals should also check with their provider to see if they are in the Cigna network to ensure that they receive in-network benefits.

Benefits of Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery can have significant health benefits, including:

– Significant and sustained weight loss.

– Improvement or resolution of comorbid conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

– Improved quality of life, including increased mobility, energy, and self-esteem.

– Reduced healthcare costs associated with obesity and its related diseases.

Conclusion

Cigna Insurance Weight Loss Surgery can be a life-changing treatment for individuals struggling with obesity and its related diseases. However, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria, requirements, and coverage before undergoing the surgery. Individuals should also seek guidance from a multidisciplinary team and commit to making long-term lifestyle changes to ensure a successful outcome. Cigna Insurance offers coverage for weight loss surgery under certain circumstances, making it a viable option for those who meet the eligibility criteria.