6-monthsHorizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey has recently changed it's position on mandatory participation in a medically supervised weight loss program for six consecutive months prior to Bariatric Surgery. As of June 19, 2010 6 MONTHS NOTES ARE NO LONGER A REQUIREMENT!

The revised policy states the following:

D. Within the 12 months prior to the time of surgery, the member must meet all of the following requirements:  

1. Documentation of previous participation in conservative (non-surgical) weight loss program or diet program/plan (e.g., Weight Watcher, Jenny Craig). [INFORMATIONAL NOTE: Programs supervised by a registered dietitian may not be a covered service under a member's contract.]

Previously, the policy indicated that patients must be enrolled in a medically supervised weight loss program for 6 consecutive months, within the previous 12 months.

If you are a Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey member and are currently on a medically supervised weight loss program, please contact us to discuss your case.