Does Canada's Health Care System Cover Weight Loss Surgery?

In recent years, provincial governments across Canada have recognized that the increase

in obesity rates is causing a financial strain on Canada's healthcare system. A report from Statistics Canada on adult body mass index revealed that in 2008, "17.2% of Canadians aged 18 or older, roughly 4.2 million adults, reported height and weight that classified them as obese." Now, a number of governments are realizing that weight loss surgery is a beneficial method to reducing the strain. More Canadians are now turning to weight loss surgery as an effective method to treating obesity long term.

The result is more provincial governments are covering the surgery costs when patients undergo the procedure by a recognized and accredited weight loss surgery facility.

Most provinces consider the surgical treatment of morbid obesity as an insured service under the publicly funded Medicare Act. Right now, Lap Band Surgery and Gastric Bypass Surgery are the only two weight loss procedures covered by insurance in Canada. As well, there are a few provinces that will only cover gastric bypass. Not every province covers the cost of lap band surgery and some provinces that do cover it will not cover the cost of the actual gastric band. As well, there are a few extended health insurance plans that may pay for part of the procedure with the other part being refunded as a tax deductible medical procedure. It is important to note that there are variations of what is covered in each province so it is important to check your home provincial health authority to find out coverage they provide.

When Medicare pays for weight loss surgery, the wait time can be quite long, sometimes several years or more. It normal to have a wait period of about 5-7 years for weight loss surgery in publicly funded hospitals across Canada. The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care of Ontario (through OHIP) will pay for gastric bypass surgery for Ontario patients at specific approved private weight loss facilities. Once approved by OHIP, patients can have the surgery within about 4 to 6 weeks. Although all provincial health insurance programs cover the costs of gastric bypass surgery, it is not always available in every province. Demand for the procedure is high in the public health system, so more private accredited weight loss clinics are being chosen.

Today, the obesity rates are increasing in Canada. When choosing weight loss or Lap band surgery, expect to lose a lot of weight and keep it off. You will see your health and appearance drastically improve. Because of their success and minimal risks, more obese people in Canada are now choosing weight loss surgery when traditional diets and exercise programs have failed. When considering weight loss surgery it is important to discuss the benefits and risks with your physician and find out if you are a potential weight loss surgery candidate. It is also important to contact your provincial health authority and insurance provider to find out what coverage is provided if you elect to have the procedure.

by: Adriana Noton.

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