Information about coverage and access
Understand your insurance policy
Everyone deserves medical treatment that can improve health and well-being. Understanding how your insurance works and who to contact with coverage questions and concerns is important.
Keep the following tips in mind:
Understand your insurance policy.
If you are denied coverage for weight-management care, such as prescription medications or bariatric surgery, talk with your health care professional about additional options to obtain coverage.
Review the details of your plan and don’t be afraid to ask your employer. Also, talk to your employer about how you and your health care team can improve coverage for what is needed. Coverage can vary significantly depending upon where you live. Make sure to read about how your insurance works so that you understand what kind of insurance you have, including your prescription plan.
The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is also a great resource for more information on navigating insurance policies and access challenges.
The Affordable Care Act requires insurance companies to cover obesity screening and counseling at no cost to you.
If your initial screening shows a BMI that is over 30, you may qualify for additional services as well.
Remember that coverage can vary significantly depending on where you live.
Make sure to read about how your insurance works so that you understand what kind of insurance you have, including your prescription plan.
Managing other health conditions.
Talk to a health care professional about how to stay on top of other conditions you may have. Your weight may have an impact on some health conditions.
