I need weight loss surgery but can’t afford it

14 August 2023
Categories:
Image depicting a credit card payment concept against a white background, symbolizing financial transactions related to weight loss surgery.

Perth Weight Loss and Surgery have introduced new ways to make bariatric surgery costs more realistic and feasible, offering a new opportunity to put your health first, and relieve the financial burden.

NEW Total Lifestyle Credit

TLC is a specialist third-party lender, helping patients finance medical costs, including bariatric surgery, with payment solutions for procedures costing $2,001 to $50,000. TLC accommodates all socio sectors; good credit scores can get rewarded with rates starting from 7.99% which is one of the lowest in Australia. There are no early payout fees, and you have the ability to pay back the amount covering treatment, therapy, product range, etc., with flexible terms extending up to 84 months, all protected by consumer credit laws. We recommend this option for both patients with and without private health cover

*NEW Zip Pay and Zip Money

We now welcome Zip Pay and Zip Money as viable payment options, so you can make arrangements that best suit your budget and lifestyle. We recommend Zip as an option for patients using Private Health Care, to make your payments more manageable. Zip Pay borrowing limits range from $350 – $2,000 depending on the user with no interest. Zip Money will cover costs from $1,000 – $15,000. Please note, that Zip Pay and Zip Money can only be used to cover Perth Weight Loss and Surgery fees.

SuperCare

An Australian company that assists the application process for early release of superannuation to help fund medical procedures. An individual choice, it is possible to apply to your super fund with support from your GP and surgeon, to help cover the out-of-pocket fees. Weight loss surgery is usually considered and approved by the super fund as it is an important treatment for obesity.

Medicare

Weight loss surgery is a proven successful path for long-term health improvement, which is why Medicare offers benefits for those eligible for surgery, who have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of at least 30 with other related health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, arthritis, depression, sleep apnoea/deprivation. It is not fully covered under the MBS, so patients will still incur some out-of-pocket expense, which is why we recommend our clients look into combining other solutions.

Private Health Cover

The amount you can access will depend on a range of factors, including the type of health fund cover, the anticipated complexity, policy waiting periods, the type of procedure, pre-existing conditions and primary or revisional surgery. For private bariatric surgery it is important to have private health insurance that covers obesity surgery. Weight Loss Surgery can often be accessed through Private Health Care after 12 months.

Anaesthetist Fee

There will be no out-of-pocket expenses for your anaesthetist, provided you have the appropriate level of cover with your private health fund. If you do not have hospital cover, then you will need to contact the anaesthetist for a detailed quote.

Hospital and Theatre Costs

Varying private health funds and policies will have varying levels of coverage for hospital excess and other hospital out-of-pocket expenses there may be. Without private hospital cover, you will need to contact the hospital for a direct quote.

Practical Strategy

We don’t want you to miss out on life-changing surgery because you are inhibited by cost, so talk to us about costs before making your final decision. By making the most of the funding at your disposal, a savings plan while you prepare for surgery and a fresh start to the new year, we are here to help you – every step of the way.

If you’re ready to start your weight loss journey or have any questions. Contact us today

It’s our mission to help you regain freedom and life healthier, happier, and longer.

 

Please Note: This article contains general advice, current at the time of writing. Subsequent changes and individual circumstances have not been considered. The exact out-of-pocket cost for your operation will be provided to you in writing well in advance of the surgery day.

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