wondering about cost

Just finally accepted that after many many times of doing it myself  I am not able to lose weight. Before  get exciting that this could work for me I need to know the cost..appoximatly...any info apprciated....

Hey there Mandy,

If you're accepted at the Bariatric Clinic here in Winnipeg, the Gastric Bybass (Roux-en-Y) and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) are being covered.  If you choose the Gastric Band (Lap Band), it isn't covered, and costs around $16 000.

Other than that, you should expect to pay approximately $500 out of pocket.

This is for:  4 dietitian visits (1 pre-op & 3 post-op): $200
                     Bariatric psychologist (not everyone has to go): $150/hr
                     Medi Trim (mandatory low-calorie diet shakes taken pre-op): $100-$150

Hope that this helps & gives you some idea of what to expect, Amanda.

Yes I had no idea if it was 5,000 or 25,000...just beginning my reseach....thanks!

Meditrim costs $187 with tax for 2 weeks of shakes.

I had a sleeve (VSG) in Vegas in December (cause they don't do men in Manitoba - enough said) and it cost me around $10,000 plus hotel and flights which was another $1000.00.  In case you are thinking of going to the US of A.  :)

Interesting.....Thanks for the info...

Hi There,
I had my surgery done in Mexico and it was about $5000. I had a really good expereince but if you can get it done here I'm sure you would rather have it done close to home.
Nikki

O.k I am just gathering info now to even see if is viable...how did you start the process..I currently do not have a family DR......

I know the criteria at the time was anyone with a BMI of 47 and under, has this changed, and has anyone else heard of the criteria ect as of recently?

Hi Mandy;

You must get a gp to refer you to the program.
If you don't have a family doctor, try a walk-in clinic and see if they will help you.

The program is:
St. Boniface Surgical Associates
Suite 200
400 Tache Ave
Winnipeg, MB R2H 3C3
(204)258-1087
fax: 204-237-8141

At the moment they are only taking women who meet certain criteria, however, they are planning on expanding the program soon. At present your BMI has to be 47 or less.

Good Luck!

Tanya