Question concerning Lap Band

Hi everyone, Just wondering if anyone who got a lap band been able to get it reimbursed by their private medical insurance? I heard that in other provinces they do, what about here? Thanks Pascale

I think it depends on your insurance company. I know that mine didn't cover it at all that is why I opted for the RNY, I couldn't afford the lapband... Angela

I have 2 private insurance companies (mine and hubbies) I applied to both and was turned down by both..my understanding is that no insurance company in Canada covers the Lapband itself. My provincial medicare did cover the actual surgery and pre and post-op appointments. I had to pay $4500.00 myself. Darlene

Hi Pascale we both had our consults on the same day. Dr B had told me that as of yet Quebec was the only place where private insurance was reimbursing BUT...he thought that within the next year or so it would expand to other places. I looked over the notes my sister took and found the info for you. However he also said that if you take a lot of medications your insurance company may look at the cost of meds verses cost of lap-band. So I guess it doesnt hurt to try! Good luck! If you can get a VERY GOOD letter from your family Dr and Dr B maybe that would help. Take care and keep me posted! Krista Cook

Thank you all for your quick respond. When the time comes, I certainly will push things as far as I can with my insurance company. I have found information on another site where people from Quebec have got reimbursed. I think that if we don't do anything that is possible to do, those rich companies will not make a move to reimburse us. If they hand up not paying, at least I will have done everything that I can. Have a nice day everyone. Another waiting period has started for me. Now I'm waiting for the full day info session. Hope it's not too long. Bye and thanks again, Pascale