Bariatric Surgery: An Effective Approach
Bariatric surgery is a group of various surgical techniques aimed at treating obesity. The underlying principle is to decrease calorie intake by reducing the volume of the stomach or by modifying the process of digestion and absorption of food. Some of the most common procedures include sleeve (gastrectomy), gastric bypass, gastric banding, and biliopancreatic bypass.
Financing and repayments: what to expect?
Before turning to this type of surgery, questions about the cost and the terms of coverage by the Health Insurance and mutual insurance companies are frequent.
Costs Associated with Bariatric Surgery
In France, the price of bariatric surgery is influenced by the procedure chosen, the health facility, the geographical region and the practitioner’s fees. Depending on whether the procedure is carried out in a contracted centre or not, the costs can vary significantly:
- For an establishment with an agreement: around €4,500 on average.
- For a non-subsidized establishment: nearly €15,000 on average.
The overall cost includes different elements such as hospitalization costs, medical expenses, medications, laboratory tests, and medical appointments. Additional costs may also be added for post-operative follow-up, nutritional rehabilitation and psychological support.
Reimbursement by Health Insurance
The French Health Insurance offers coverage for bariatric surgeries under certain conditions. If these are respected, it covers about 70% of the average amount of €4,500, i.e. €3,150. However, in the case of intervention in a non-contracted clinic, this reimbursement does not apply, leaving the entire cost to be borne by the patient.
Criteria for reimbursement by Social Security
To be eligible for coverage by the Health Insurance, several criteria must be met, including: a high BMI (Body Mass Index), medical complications associated with obesity, unsuccessful attempts at non-surgical treatment, the approval of medical specialists, a state of health compatible with an intervention of this magnitude and postoperative medical follow-up.
Contribution of mutual insurance companies
Reimbursements from health insurance companies may vary depending on the contract. They can cover part or all of the remaining costs after Social Security intervention. Ancillary expenses, such as pre- and post-operative consultations, medications, medical examinations, dietary supplements, compression garments, and travel and accommodation expenses, should also be considered in the overall budget.
Bariatric surgery at a lower cost: why consider Turkey?
To reduce the expenses associated with bariatric surgery, it is essential to compare rates between different facilities and countries. In this respect, sleeve surgery in Turkey, as well as other bariatric procedures, are often much less expensive than in Europe. Recognized for its medical expertise, Turkey has established itself as a top destination for bariatric surgery. In addition, intervention times are generally shorter, offering an opportunity to combine the operation with a tourist stay.
Conclusion
Obesity, which is constantly increasing in France, can be effectively combated with bariatric surgery. However, before committing to it, it is crucial to be well informed about the costs, the reimbursement methods and to consider alternatives such as Turkey to benefit from quality care at an advantageous rate.
