Lap Band - covered by OHIP?

Good morning everyone.  I am doing some research for a friend about the different types of weight loss procedures and wondered about the LapBand.  Is this covered by OHIP?  I have heard two sides...some say yes, OHIP does cover this, while others say no OHIP does not.

If OHIP covers it, can it be done in Ottawa, or does the patient have to go Toronto?  (Again, info provided to me that I am wondering about). 

Any info you could provide will be appreciated.

Thanks...take care.

Linda

It's definitely not covered.  I don't know of any surgeons in Ottawa that perform the lap-band.  Most of the clinics are in Toronto/Mississauga area.  Some from Ottawa go to Montreal as it's closer.

Here's the link for the OHIP Schedule of Benefits.  You will find the information on weight loss surgery on page 12.  OHIP covers the removal of the band if there are complications or if RNY is being done instead but does not cover the insertion of the band. 

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/providers/program/ohip/s ob/physserv/s_digest.pdf

Can you tell me what RNY means pls? I am trying to find a surgeon in Ottawa to remove my band. I am having complications so I'm hoping it's covered. I went to this Ohip site but don't understand the numbers under cost. Please help!

thx

Hi,  its actually spelled Roux-en-Y and it's a gastric bypass procedure.

No the lap band is not covered, I recently had mine removed but before I did I was sent to the band Dr and they would want 15 grand to re do it and fix the one I had so I got rny and it has been a lifesaver........

Sounds like your band clinic really stood behind their surgery.  (NOT)  My clinic has stated that if our bands need to be replaced for whatever reason that Allergan stands behind their product and will provide the new band free of charge and therefore there are no extra costs like the 15K you were stated which is too bad.

Please tell me if you had it removed in Ottawa and if cost was covered if complications.

thx!