Will the Army (Tri-Care Prime) cover Lap-Band Surgery?

Question

I'm an Army wife. I've gone to the tri-care website and it says they cover gastric bypass,but I was wondering if they cover lap-band.

Answer 1

Probably not. They probably consider that an elective surgery. You will have to check up on that.

Answer 2

Yes. Be sure to call first, then get written authorization along with a list of providers.

http://manuals.tricare.osd.mil/index.cfm...

Answer 3

Yes, they sure do!!  I was offered my choice of the lap band or Gastric bypass and I  opted for the Gastric Bypass.  Tricare Prime will cover either one.

Most MTF's will do either one for you but they have only been doing lap bands since January of this year so it may be hard to find an experienced surgeon to do one.  Here at Eglin both Bariatric surgeons are experienced in both surgeries.  Just make sure you ask your Bariatric surgeon how much experience they have had.

Good Luck on your journey!