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Insurance coverage has always been a hot topic within the field of bariatric weight-loss surgery — and sometimes a bone of contention, as well.
Insurance companies (always trying to minimize their coverage costs) argue that weight-loss surgery is an elective procedure that should not be covered by a policy. Doctors and patients, on the other hand, argue that the procedures are necessary for good health, and deserving of insurance coverage.
Over the years, more and more insurance companies have started covering weight-loss surgery procedures. You can now add MGM Resorts International to that ever-growing list.
Employees of MGM Resorts International who have the company’s preferred provider organization (PPO) coverage are now covered for bariatric weight-loss surgeries through the Gastric Band Institute of Las Vegas.
This new development results from a partnership between MGM Resorts and the Gastric Band Institute, which offers gastric banding and bypass procedures.
Dr. Jim Atkinson, owner of the Gastric Band Institute, explained how bariatric surgery can actually benefit employers in the long run: “Studies have shown that people with obesity tend to miss more work days than healthy individuals.”
Employees of MGM Resorts who have other types of plans won’t be covered under the new arrangement.
