Bariatric Surgery Added
Posted 10/31/2016

Beginning Jan.1, 2017, bariatric surgery will be a covered benefit under the HealthChoice High, High Alternative, Basic, and Basic Alternative health plans and High Deductible Health Plan for members ages 18 and older. The member must have been covered under a HealthChoice health plan for 12 consecutive months prior to bariatric surgery. Members are encouraged to continue coverage with a HealthChoice health plan for 24 consecutive months after bariatric surgery. Coverage is limited to bariatric sleeve, bypass and duodenal switch as well as revision and conversions. Bariatric services are subject to certification as set forth by the certification administrator and standard benefits and policy provisions apply. All bariatric surgeries must be obtained from a participating network Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Comprehensive Center of Excellence.