As part of our comprehensive bariatric program, we require that you attend one of our bi-monthly educational seminars prior to your consultation with our bariatric surgeon.  Our experience has proven that you will have a clear understanding of the requirements, the procedure, and our program after attending the seminar.  Members of our team will be available to answer your questions, and to meet with you one-on-one.  You can view a list of the upcoming educational sessions on our website @ www.carteretsurgical.com. You will contact our office to make your appointment for your educational seminar and physician consultation. 

After the seminar you should:
To better prepare for your visit, we encourage you to work with your primary care physician to obtain a five year weight history.  A sample (weight loss history) letter for your primary care physician can be downloaded from our website.  This proactive approach helps you and the team to develop your individualized timeline for surgery.
You should contact your insurance company to see if they cover the procedure, what exactly it will cost you, and what special requirements they may have.  For instance, almost all insurance companies require an evaluation by a psychologist, a nutritional consultation, and a five year weight history.  Some insurance companies require that your primary care physician work with you for six months on a diet program.  Each insurance company has special requirements, and our team is experienced and works diligently to obtain authorization for you.  Sometimes that process takes longer than we like, but we are determined and have been very successful securing approval!
If you have no insurance benefits, or do not wish to go through the special requirements or long waiting period, we have arranged for an outstanding finance program throughCare Credit that offers convenient & affordable payment options (with flexible monthly payment options specifically designed for bariatric surgery). We have developed a “flat fee” alternative for our Ambulatory Surgery Center located adjacent to our practice location.