In today's healthcare landscape, many individuals find that their health insurance plans do not cover bariatric surgery, often termed a "contract exclusion." If you're exploring gastric sleeve surgery or other weight loss procedures in South Florida, understanding the costs, insurance coverage, and available options is essential. This article provides a detailed overview of self-pay weight loss surgery in Florida, including costs, financing options, and the comprehensive care you can expect.
Why Choose Self-Pay for Weight Loss Surgery?
Opting for self-pay weight loss surgery can offer several advantages. One significant benefit is the ability to fast-track your journey to weight loss. At Florida Surgery & Weight Loss Center, being a self-pay patient allows you to schedule your surgery in as little as two weeks. This expedited timeline can be particularly appealing if you are eager to improve your health and quality of life without the delays often associated with insurance approvals.
Understanding the Costs of Weight Loss Surgery
The cost of weight loss surgery in Florida can vary depending on the type of procedure and the facility you choose. For instance, at BodyByBariatrics, self-pay prices for gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy start at $10,999. New Life Surgical Associates also offers discounted, low-cost options for revision bariatric surgery for those paying out-of-pocket without bariatric surgery insurance coverage.
It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may not include all associated costs. A comprehensive consultation and pre-operative testing are necessary to determine the exact cost for your specific situation.
Financing Options for Self-Pay Patients
Recognizing that the cost of surgery can be a significant concern, many centers offer various financing options to make weight loss surgery more accessible.
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CareCredit
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that provides a flexible way to pay for medical expenses. It can be used for a range of healthcare services, including weight loss surgery, and offers convenient monthly payment options.
BARInet
Florida Coast Weight Loss Center is one of the few providers in Central Florida that offers BARInet, another financing option specifically for bariatric surgery.
Medical Loans and Financing Plans
Many weight loss surgery centers partner with leading healthcare financing companies to provide patients with affordable payment plans. These plans often feature low interest rates and manageable monthly payments, making it easier to fit the cost of surgery into your budget.
Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Surgery
While many insurance plans exclude bariatric surgery, coverage can vary based on your provider and state regulations. Under the Affordable Care Act, some states now require certain plans to cover bariatric surgery. It's worthwhile to check your insurance policy or use a free insurance check tool to determine your coverage status.
Even if your insurance does cover weight loss surgery, there may be specific requirements you need to meet, such as completing a certain number of medical visits before scheduling your procedure.
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Comprehensive Care and Support
Choosing the right weight loss surgery center means more than just finding an affordable price. It also means ensuring you receive comprehensive care and support throughout your weight loss journey.
Expert Surgical Teams
Top weight loss surgery centers in Florida boast world-class teams of board-certified providers dedicated to your health. For example, Dr. Sergey Terushkin at Florida Surgery & Weight Loss Center has over 15 years of experience in bariatric and medical weight loss. Similarly, New Life Surgical Associates ensures that surgeries are performed to the highest standards of safety and comfort by skilled, board-certified surgeons.
Doctor-Supervised Programs
Programs led by experienced bariatric experts, such as Dr. Sergey Terushkin, MD, FACS, at Florida Surgery & Weight Loss Center, provide personalized care and guidance. These programs often include meal plans, nutritional supplements, FDA-approved medication, nutritional counseling, and behavioral therapy.
BLISCare
Some surgeons offer BLISCare, a unique type of insurance that protects patients against covered complication-related medical expenses. This financial backstop provides additional peace of mind, ensuring access to medical care should any complications arise.
Types of Weight Loss Surgery
Several types of weight loss surgery are available in Florida, each with its own benefits and considerations.
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Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass involves creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing a portion of the small intestine. This leads to smaller portion sizes and decreased absorption of ingested foods. This established operation has been used to treat obesity for more than 50 years.
Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
Sleeve gastrectomy reduces the size of the stomach by approximately 75%. This procedure helps patients feel fuller faster and reduces the amount of food they can consume.
Adjustable Gastric Band
An adjustable gastric band involves placing a silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. The band has an inflatable balloon that can be adjusted to control the feeling of hunger and limit food intake.
Intragastric Balloon
An intragastric balloon is a non-invasive procedure where a balloon is placed in the stomach to create a feeling of fullness and reduce appetite.
Revisional Weight Loss Surgery
Revisional weight loss surgery is performed to alter or repair a previous weight loss surgery that did not provide the desired results. This may be necessary due to device-related problems or unsatisfactory weight loss.
What to Expect in a Self-Pay Program
A typical self-pay weight loss surgery program includes several steps to ensure you are well-prepared and supported throughout your journey. For example, Florida Coast Weight Loss Center offers a comprehensive program that includes:
- Initial Consultation: An online televisit to complete your medical history and discuss weight loss philosophy.
- Preoperative Testing: Body composition scan, basal metabolic rate (BMR) study, labs, and a cardiac workup.
- Follow-up Virtual Visit: Review of pre-op study results and confirmation of your treatment plan.
- Pre-Op Virtual Visit: Review of the surgical process, perioperative medications, and answering any last-minute questions.
- Surgery Day: The outpatient procedure takes approximately 5-6 hours, and you will return home with a caregiver.
Preparing for Your Surgery in Orlando
If you choose a facility in Orlando, such as BodyByBariatrics, planning your travel and accommodations is essential.
Transportation
When arriving at Orlando International Airport (MCO), you have several transportation options:
- Private Car Services: Book in advance for personalized transportation to your accommodation and medical appointments.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Utilize Uber or Lyft for convenient and cost-effective transportation.
- Orlando Taxi Services: Traditional taxi services are available at the airport.
- Shuttle Services: Check with your hotel to see if they offer airport shuttle services.
- Car Rentals: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring Orlando.
Accommodation
For comfort and convenience, consider staying at Home2 Suites Winter Garden, located next to The Surgical Institute of Central Florida. Alternatively, explore Airbnb or vacation rentals for more personalized options.
Medications
Medications will be prescribed on the day of surgery and can be filled at CVS at 13697 W Colonial Dr, Winter Garden, FL 34787.
Support
Having a responsible adult with you on the day of surgery is crucial. If this isn't possible, a nursing service can provide the necessary care and support.
Exploring Orlando During Your Stay
Your stay in Orlando offers an opportunity to explore the city's attractions.
Theme Parks
- SeaWorld Orlando: Marine life wonders and aquatic shows.
- Aquatica Orlando: Water slides and animal encounters.
- Disneyâs Hollywood Studios: Thrilling rides and live entertainment.
- Disneyâs Animal Kingdom: Exotic animals and safari adventures.
- Epcot: International cuisine and cultural experiences.
- Magic Kingdom: Classic Disney magic and fairy tales.
- Universal Studios Florida: Movie-themed attractions and shows.
- Universalâs Islands of Adventure: Action-packed rides and attractions.
Other Attractions
- Gatorland: Observe alligators and crocodiles.
- Disney Springs: Shopping, dining, and live entertainment.
Dining Options
- The Whole Enchilada Fresh Mexican Grill & Bar: Mexican cuisine with rooftop seating.
- Market to Table: Farm-to-table American dishes.
- MoonCricket Grille: Casual American comfort food.
- Urban on Plant Kitchen & Bar: International fusion cuisine.
- The Chefâs Table at the Edgewater: Fine dining with seasonal menus.
Grocery Stores
- Publix Super Market at Stoneybrook West Village: Wide selection of groceries and fresh produce.
- Walmart Supercenter: One-stop shop for groceries and household items.
- Target: Groceries, home goods, and clothing.
- Aldi: Budget-friendly prices and quality items.
Other Retailers
- Best Buy: Electronics and home appliances.
- Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves: Open-air shopping center.
- Kohlâs: Clothing, shoes, and home goods.
- Barnes & Noble: Books, magazines, and gifts.