Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Bypass?

Trying to determine who is a candidate for gastric bypass can be a challenge. The problem is not just what your physical condition is, but also what your insurance company says you have to have in order to have this procedure. There is no doubt that this type of procedure should be a last resort when every other method has been unsuccessful. Yet, there is more to it than just this.

Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Bypass Based on BMI?

The biggest factor is your BMI. BMI, or body mass index, is a measurement of your body’s overall fat composition. The more fat that is on your body, the higher the risk factors are for you to develop a wide range of health complications.

• If your BMI is 35 to 39.9, this indicates you are obese. At this level, you have a very high risk of health complications related to your weight.

• For those over 40, you will be considered extremely obese. Keep in mind that there is an upper cutoff as well. Some doctors will not operate on the super obese simply because of the risks involved.

• If your weight is between 30 and 34 BMI, you are not likely a candidatefor this procedure.

Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Bypass Based on Health

As mentioned, your risk of health complications rises if you have a high BMI. In many cases, when speaking to your doctor about who is a candidate for gastric bypass, he or she will discuss with you your health risks. Those who have high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, and type 2 diabetes may be specifically at risk if they are overweight. By having this procedure, you may improve those conditions.

Working with Your Insurance

In many cases, when discussing your qualifications for this procedure, you have to consider the actual insurance company’s requirements. Most willrequire you to spend at least some time trying to lose weight in the traditional manner. This needs to be documented by a doctor. You will need psychological counseling to ensure you are truly willing to work to lose the weight. You will need to bring conditions like emotional eating under control as well.

Who is a candidate for gastric bypass? If you are not sure if you are, schedule an appointment with a doctor to discuss your options, concerns, and qualifications. You can learn more about this procedure and what it could mean to you.