If you are considering undergoing weight loss surgery, you are likely processing all the details that come with planning the procedure. Not only will your body be going through some incredible changes, but you will also need to prepare financially for the surgery, taking time off work, and planning for meals that incorporate new, healthy foods. Once you undergo bariatric surgery, you will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements for the rest of your life. You may be wondering: Does insurance cover bariatric vitamins?
What types of vitamins will you need?
You will need vitamins made specifically for bariatric surgery patients. These vitamins have higher doses of specific vitamins and are more absorbable for your new digestive system. That means you will have less irritation and you can be confident that your body is getting the nutrients it needs.
You will need a multivitamin that will need to be chewed or swallowed one to three times a day. Your medical team will go over the best multivitamin option for you.
If the multivitamin doesn’t have enough iron in it, then you will also need to take an iron supplement that gets you up to the 29-60 mg per day mark. You will also need about 1,000 mcg of Vitamin B12 and about 1000 to 1500 mg of calcium daily. Approximately 3,000 IU of vitamin D is required, and often probiotics are used as well to help promote good gut health.
Does insurance cover bariatric vitamin supplements?
This will vary depending on your insurance coverage. Not all insurance providers will pay for vitamin and mineral supplements, but some might if there is a written prescription for them. You will need to contact your insurance company to determine what they will cover and what you will need to pay for out of pocket.
If you are ready to jumpstart your weight loss journey through your bariatric procedure, our team at WeightWise can help. We will take a close look at your medical history and see if you are a candidate for surgery. If you are, we can help determine what your insurance will pay or provide convenient financing options if you need to pay for it out of pocket. Call us today to learn more!