Does Medicare cover weight loss surgery?

Yes, Medicare can cover weight loss surgery , but only if it's deemed medically necessary and you meet specific requirements (for example, you typically have to have a BMI of at least 35 or 40). You also won't be approved until you meet with a physician for an in-depth, face-to-face consultation.

Are there waiting periods for weight loss surgery?

Yes. You will have to hold health insurance that covers weight loss surgery for at least 2 months before you are covered. However, the treatment almost always gets considered a pre-existing condition, so you'll probably need to wait the 12-month waiting period instead.

Is there a minimum weight for weight loss surgery?

To qualify for weight loss surgery, you typically need a BMI of at least 40, or 35 if you have some other co-morbidities. Whether the surgery is medically necessary is something that you'll need to talk to your GP and specialist about.

Are there any government funded weight loss surgery programs in Australia?

Yes, the MLHD Metabolic Obesity Service (MOS) is a pathway program to weight loss surgery through education, focussing on lasting behavioural changes. This program is available for residents in rural or remote NSW and includes 4 appointment phases. However, there is a 10-12 month wait to be invited to an initial invitation session.