Question:
Is the Fobi Pouch procedure covered by Medicaid?

I am a female, 47 years of age, 5'2, 400 pounds, tried every diet in the world and see no results. I suffer from hyper-tension, non-functional thyroid gland, and panic and anxiety disorder. My feet swell until I can't walk or move. Hard for me to breath due to extra weight, and the fat on my abdomen pushes down on my intestines causing severe pain. I would greatly appreciate some help for the Fobi Pouch procedure. I have Medicaid and my doctors say that it is very neccessary and a matter of life or death. But Medicaid doesn't cover because they think it is just to look good when this is really a concern about my health and not my looks.    — Cookie M. (posted on July 17, 1999)

July 17, 1999
Hi, my name is Paula, and I have had the same surgery as the Fobi Pouch. This same surgery is done by many surgeons. The Fobi Pouch was named after Dr. Fobi, who is a great surgeon as well. My surgery was done by Dr. Marema, so you could call my surgery "Marema Pouch". (just to give you a example). This surgery is a true blessing. I have had my surgery 11 weeks ago, and I have lost 64 pounds. Because of the silastic ring that they put around the new tummy, I never feel hungry. Now I have to remind myself to eat. I do know that Medicaid pays for Gastric Bypass surgery if it is a "Medical Necessary" surgery. Each state has their own rules regarding this. I have no idea where you live, so you would have to check with your state rules. As far as Dr. Fobi, I know he takes a certain amount of Medicaid patients, (not many), but then he also has a additional fee as well. His surgery runs about $40,000. As I have said before, there are other surgeons that do this same surgery, and you should do some research on them before you decide. NEVER pick a doctor because it is close to you, always look for the best surgeon, regardless of distance. I realize that this could add up in money, but it also could mean your life as well. This is a major surgery, and you want a surgeon that knows what they are doing. You are more than welcome to e-mail me with any other questions. I am always willing to help. Sincerely, Paula in ST. Pete [email protected]
   — Paula D.

July 18, 1999
Medicaid often covers WLS. I know several people in VA who receive Medicaid and have had their surgery covered. Also, there are tons of excellent surgeons (a a few not so good). You can see comments about surgeons on this site, and you can also check with the American Bariatric Surgeons Association. This site is a wonderful place to begin your research.
   — Peggy51

July 18, 1999
Have you contacted NeWeigh, they are very successful at getting the Surgical Weight Loss Procedures approved through any Insurance. They are located in Houston and have two Doctor's that perform the surgery. I had Dr. Jayakumar and he was wonderful. The other doctor is Dr. Ferrari and I hear he is also wonderful. Their number is 713-795-0200. Good Luck!
   — Colleen H.

July 18, 1999
hi i had the Fobi pouch but not with medicaid. I do know that the pouch is coved by medicaid and medicare but fobi doesn't accept out of state medi-medi anymore. so you have to be have California Medi-medi if you want to have it done by him personally. There are doctors that are trained by Dr. Fobi all over the World; Mexico City, japan, Canada, and a lot here in the US. If you are out of state you can still call the office and find out if there is a doctor in your area the number is (562) 866-7908. Good luck George
   — George A.