How to Finance Bariatric Surgery When Insurance Isn’t an Option
Bariatric surgery can significantly improve your quality of life by offering effective solutions for weight management. While insurance often covers this life-altering surgery for those who meet specific criteria, not everyone has this benefit. If you’re exploring how to pay for bariatric surgery without insurance, we will explore some of the options you may have.
Personal and Medical Loans
One viable option for paying for weight loss surgery without insurance is taking out a personal loan. These loans are generally unsecured, meaning they don’t require collateral like a house or car. With decent credit, you might secure a loan with a favorable interest rate, making it a practical choice to fund your surgery.
Alternatively, medical loans can offer a structured way to finance your procedure. These might require collateral, which helps obtain lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans. This option typically allows up to ten years for repayment, making it a feasible solution for many.
Specialized Credit Facilities
CareCredit is a unique credit card specifically designed for health-related expenses, including the bariatric surgery process. It allows for the financing of medical procedures not covered by insurance, often with promotional periods of deferred interest, making it an attractive option for immediate funding.
Health Savings Accounts
If you have a high-deductible health plan, you might be eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA). An HSA operates much like a personal savings account but is used exclusively for medical expenses. This can be a tax-advantaged way to set aside money for weight loss surgery payments without insurance.
Considering Retirement Funds
Though generally advised as a last resort due to the potential impact on your retirement savings, borrowing from your 401(k)-retirement plan is another option. This approach involves borrowing against your future to fund immediate health needs like bariatric surgery.
Arranging Hospital Payment Plans
Many hospitals offer weight loss surgery payment plans to patients without insurance. These plans typically break down the cost of the surgery over several months or even years, often with minimal or no interest. Directly contacting the billing department of the hospital where your surgery will be performed can provide you with specific details and eligibility criteria.
Explore Your Options With Us
Choosing the right financing option for your bariatric surgery requires careful consideration of your financial situation and long-term health goals. At Ascension Saint Agnes, we understand the complexities involved in funding such significant medical procedures. If you’ve explored these avenues and still find yourself needing assistance, or if your request for surgery authorization was denied, we have the right to appeal on your behalf. Let’s discuss how we can support your journey to better health with the help of a skilled bariatric surgeon in Maryland.