Obesity as a disease: What does it mean for Americans?
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/19/obesity-as-disease-what-does-it-mean-for-americans/#ixzz2WgLxMwqJ
According to Khaitan, bariatric surgery is often the best option for obese people who haven’t been able to lose weight through traditional diet and exercise programs. However, weight loss surgery is often seen as an elective procedure by insurance companies, meaning patients usually have to pass through many hurdles before they undergo the procedure.
“Up until now, without that classification, the path to obesity surgery (has been) very challenging,” Khaitan said. “Oftentimes people have to pay extra to have that type of insurance policy, (and) many employers choose not to cover it because it’s consider an elective operation. Now, we’re saying obesity surgery is no longer elective, it is truly something that will treat (this) disease and is potentially lifesaving.”
Additionally, Khaitan hopes that the changes will also make it easier for obese patients – or those at risk for obesity – to receive nutritional counseling.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/06/19/obesity-as-disease-what-does-it-mean-for-americans/#ixzz2WgLnwRQa
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