FAQs

1. How will Weight Loss Surgery affect my current medical problems?
   Typically, patients find that the majority of their medical problems are either greatly improved or eliminated as a result of having weight loss surgery.
   
   
2. Am I a candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
   If you have a BMI of 40 or greater or 35-39 with co-morbidities such as High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, or Sleep Apnea you then qualify to have Weight Loss Surgery. Try our BMI Calculator on our homepage to learn what category applies to your current weight and height. You can also give us a call today at 210-368-7445 to speak with an experienced specialist and to schedule your appointment at one of our Free Seminars.
   
   
3. Does my insurance cover Weight Loss Surgery?
   If you have insurance, our network of professionals will work closely with you to obtain coverage for Weight Loss Surgery. To be considered for coverage, your insurance company may require documentation regarding your medical history and any weight-related health problems you might be experiencing. In certain circumstances, a supervised diet is required. Our Surgeons and Dietitian will work closely together and with you to complete the supervised diet. See our Register section to send us your insurance information. Our team of Insurance Verifiers and Specialists can explain your Insurance Benefits and Criteria to you or, call us at 210-368-7445.
   
   
4. Where do I start?
   

   Call 210-368-7455 to reserve your seat at one of our Free Seminars and learn more about weight loss surgery, our surgeons, and what makes our facility your hospital of choice.
   

5. Why does the Insurance Approval process take so long?
   Insurance approval can take up to 30 days from the date your insurance carrier receives all of your required criteria. The usual process begins with a Nurse or Case Manager review. It is at that point that your insurance carrier verifies that you have completed all of the required criteria. Then your request is usually sent to a Medical Director for final review and approval. Our Insurance Specialists follow up on a daily basis for the status of pending authorizations.
   
   
6. What is my Insurance Carrier's Criteria?
   Insurance Criteria is a list of requirements from your Insurance Carrier that you must complete in order for your carrier to approve your surgery. After your initial consultation with the surgeon you will meet with an Insurance Specialist who will be able to explain your Insurance Carrier's criteria.
   
   
7. What is a Multidisciplinary team?
   At Innova Hospital our Bariatric Program works with a network of other providers that are as dedicated to success as we are. At your initial consultation you will meet the surgeon and discuss your medical history and surgical options. Your insurance benefits and criteria will be explained to you in a private consultation with an Insurance Specialist. You will also have the opportunity to complete a nutrition evaluation with a Registered Dietitian as well be able to complete your Behavioral Health Evaluation. At Innova Hospital we offer all of these services, instead of sending you out to complete these appointments on your own. The Innova Program is here to support you before and after your Weight Loss Surgery. All of the dietary and behavioral health services that were available before surgery are still available to you after surgery.
   
   
8. What time do I need to be at the hospital?
   The Bariatric clinic will be able to give you a surgery date and an approximate time. The hospital Pre Op Nurse will contact you usually 1-2 days prior to your surgery to give you an exact arrival time and instructions for the day before surgery.
   
   
9. How long will I stay in the hospital?
   The average stay for Gastric Bypass Surgery patients is 1-2 nights. Gastric Banding patients are usually outpatient surgeries.
   
   
10. What do I need to bring with me to the hospital?
    Basic toiletries: a comb or brush, moisturizing lotion, toothbrush and toothpaste. Portable music, or something to read.