If you are a COVA Care or COVA Connect plan member thinking about bariatric surgery, the state health benefits program wants to help you select the best options to deal with obesity issues before you make a final decision to have surgery. An education program is now required for members contemplating this surgery. It was developed in response to a 2009 General Assembly request for an obesity education program as an alternative to proposed elimination of coverage for bariatric surgery.
The program’s goal is to improve your chance for successful surgery and to prepare you for the lifestyle changes that come with it. It has several components, including prior authorization for bariatric surgery, weight management, nutrition counseling, disease management and personalized coaching and support services. If the surgery is approved, your plan will waive the inpatient or outpatient copayment. The program also offers continued support after your surgery to ensure that you have the best possible health outcomes.
For more details, click on the links below or see your plan Member Handbook posted online under Health Benefits on this site.