If you’re considering bariatric surgery, it’s important to have a letter of intent to present to your insurance company. This letter will outline your reasons for pursuing weight loss surgery and provide evidence of your medical history and other factors that support your need for this procedure. Here are seven examples of sample letters of intent for bariatric surgery, along with some tips for how to create your own.
If you’re struggling with obesity and have found that traditional weight loss methods aren’t working, bariatric surgery may be an option worth exploring. However, before you can undergo this procedure, you’ll need to have a letter of intent that outlines your reasons for pursuing surgery and any other relevant medical information. This letter can be a critical component in obtaining insurance coverage for your surgery.
A letter of intent for bariatric surgery should be concise and to the point, stating your reasons for pursuing this procedure and any other pertinent details. Many insurance companies require this letter before they will agree to cover the costs associated with bariatric surgery. By providing a well-written letter of intent, you can increase your chances of being approved for surgery and getting the care you need.
There are many examples of letters of intent available online that you can use as a starting point. These letters can be edited and customized to fit your specific situation and medical history.
Sample Letters of Intent for Bariatric Surgery
Example 1: BMI over 40
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity, which has led to numerous health issues. I have a body mass index (BMI) over 40, which puts me in the category of morbidly obese. Despite making significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, I have not been able to achieve lasting weight loss.
I believe that bariatric surgery is the best option for me to achieve long-term weight loss and improve my overall health. I have consulted with my healthcare provider and completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing to ensure that I am a good candidate for this procedure. Thank you for considering my request for coverage.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Example 2: High Blood Pressure
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity and related health conditions. I have struggled with my weight for many years and have tried numerous diets and exercise programs without success. In addition, I have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, which puts me at increased risk for heart attack and stroke.
My healthcare provider has recommended bariatric surgery as a safe and effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and reduce my risk of developing serious health complications. I have completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing and believe that I am a good candidate for this procedure. Thank you for considering my request for coverage.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Example 3: Type 2 Diabetes
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity and related health conditions. I have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which is a serious and chronic medical condition that requires ongoing management. My healthcare provider has recommended bariatric surgery as a safe and effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and improve my overall health.
I have completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing and believe that I am a good candidate for this procedure. I am committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to ensure the success of this surgery and would greatly appreciate your support in covering the costs associated with this treatment. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Lee
Example 4: Sleep Apnea
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity and related health conditions. I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, which is a serious medical condition that causes me to stop breathing periodically during the night.
I have struggled with my weight for many years and have tried numerous diets and exercise programs without success. My healthcare provider has recommended bariatric surgery as a safe and effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and reduce my risk of developing serious health complications related to my sleep apnea.
I have completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing and believe that I am a good candidate for this procedure. Thank you for your consideration of my request for coverage.
Sincerely,
Mike Jones
Example 5: Joint Pain
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity and related health conditions. I have struggled with my weight for many years and have tried numerous diets and exercise programs without success. In addition, I have developed chronic joint pain in my knees and hips as a result of carrying excess weight.
Bariatric surgery has been recommended by my healthcare provider as a safe and effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and reduce the strain on my joints. I have completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing and believe that I am a good candidate for this procedure. Thank you for considering my request for coverage.
Sincerely,
Kelly Smith
Example 6: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity and related health conditions. I have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal disorder that can cause weight gain and other health problems. Despite making significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, I have not been able to achieve lasting weight loss.
Bariatric surgery has been recommended by my healthcare provider as a safe and effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and improve my overall health. I have completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing and believe that I am a good candidate for this procedure. Thank you for considering my request for coverage.
Sincerely,
Emily Wong
Example 7: Heart Disease
Dear Insurance Company,
I am writing to request coverage for bariatric surgery as a treatment for my obesity and related health conditions. I have been diagnosed with heart disease, which is a serious medical condition that requires ongoing management. My healthcare provider has recommended bariatric surgery as a safe and effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and reduce my risk of developing serious health complications related to my heart disease.
I have completed all of the necessary pre-surgical testing and believe that I am a good candidate for this procedure. I am committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to ensure the success of this surgery and would greatly appreciate your support in covering the costs associated with this treatment. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
William Chen
Tips for Writing a Letter of Intent for Bariatric Surgery
Start with a Clear and Concise Introduction
Your letter should begin with a brief introduction that reinforces your reasons for pursuing bariatric surgery. Keep this section simple and to the point, using language that is easy to understand.
Provide Specific Details about Your Medical History
Be sure to include all relevant medical information in your letter of intent. This may include your body mass index (BMI), any obesity-related health conditions you have been diagnosed with, and any other relevant medical history. Providing specific details can help to strengthen your case for surgery.
Include Evidence of Previous Weight Loss Attempts
If you have tried other weight loss methods in the past, be sure to include this information in your letter of intent. This can help to demonstrate that you have made a good faith effort to lose weight through other means before pursuing surgery.
Be Clear about Your Goals and Expectations
Make sure that your letter of intent clearly outlines your goals and expectations for bariatric surgery. This may include your desired weight loss goals, as well as any other expectations you have for the procedure.
Thank the Reader for Their Time and Consideration
Be sure to end your letter with a polite request for coverage and a sincere thank you for the reader’s time and consideration. This can help to make a positive impression and increase your chances of being approved for surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should my letter of intent be?
A: Your letter of intent should be concise and to the point, ideally no more than one to two pages in length.
Q: Can I use a template for my letter of intent?
A: Yes, there are many templates available online that you can use as a starting point for your letter of intent. However, it’s important to customize the template to your specific situation and medical history to ensure that it accurately reflects your needs and goals.
Q: What should I do if my insurance company denies coverage for bariatric surgery?
A: If your insurance company denies coverage for bariatric surgery, you can appeal the decision. This may require additional documentation or medical evidence to support your case. You can also consider other options for financing your surgery, such as a personal loan or payment plan.
Q: Do I need to have any medical tests before writing my letter of intent?
A: Yes, you should have a comprehensive medical evaluation before writing your letter of intent. This may include blood work, imaging tests, and other diagnostic tests to determine your overall health and candidacy for bariatric surgery.
Q: Is bariatric surgery covered by all insurance plans?
A: No, not all insurance plans cover bariatric surgery. However, many plans do offer coverage for this procedure if certain criteria are met, such as a specific BMI range or the presence of obesity-related health conditions.
Q: Will I need to follow a special diet after bariatric surgery?
A: Yes, you will need to follow a special diet after bariatric surgery to ensure optimal weight loss and minimize the risk of complications. Your healthcare provider will provide you with detailed instructions on what to eat and how to prepare meals after surgery.
Conclusion
A letter of intent is an important tool for anyone considering bariatric surgery. By outlining your reasons for pursuing this procedure and providing evidence of your medical history and other relevant factors, you can increase your chances of obtaining insurance coverage for this treatment. Use the examples and tips outlined in this article to create a letter of intent that accurately reflects your needs and goals.