In 21st century America, health care has become a divisive topic affecting nearly every citizen. The rhetoric of politicians obscures the reality that even the best medical care in the world may be too costly for those who need it the most. People suffering from extreme obesity may benefit from surgical procedures that are not covered by insurance, influencing some to choose bariatric surgery in Mexico.
A weight-loss procedure is indicated when excess pounds cannot be dropped by a strict diet regimen and exercise, and becomes life-threatening. For those diagnosed as clinically obese, normal weight loss methods simply have not worked, no matter how great the motivation or reward. In a culture obsessed by physical appearance, these individuals pay the price both physically and psychologically.
The physical problems associated with extreme overweight include type-2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and associated cardiac problems, and even gastroesophageal reflux. Most surgical procedures to encourage weight loss are specifically designed to restrict the digestive tract. Some reduce stomach size using elastic bands, while others remove a portion of the lower tract to block absorption of calories.
The majority of people in the United States today carry excess poundage, but never attain a body mass index registering 40, considered clinically obese. Those falling into that category may still not be good prospects for surgery. Even people with medical coverage are required to follow a verifiable diet and exercise program prior to approval. The process can take months, and after making that effort success is not a guaranteed result.
Besides the usual risks of undergoing invasive procedures involving anesthesia, there are common side effects to be considered. Food may move too rapidly into the intestine, resulting in painful cramping and debilitating nausea. When severe, additional procedures may be needed, further increasing overall costs. Because of these possible additional expenses, insurance providers commonly reject coverage.
Faced with paying the entire amount personally, many people choose less expensive options in Mexico, where similar procedures cost half as much, but are still a significant amount. Those seriously considering taking this course of action must decide whether savings matter more than local care. Pre-surgical testing is a requirement, and may need to be completed prior to leaving. More than one trip may be necessary.
When choosing a surgeon a background check should be completed, and patients must decide whether to return to Mexico for required post-surgical checkups, or to seek that treatment at home. Follow-up care is always important, but becomes especially necessary when overall levels of health and nutrition must be closely monitored. Devices implanted for lap-band procedures must meet U. S. Standards, or will not be qualify for treatment.
Patients must be absolutely sure that they will benefit from surgery abroad, and often begin their investigation by speaking with current health-care providers. Many have reported excellent results, but there are also anecdotal accounts of unanticipated and serious problems. While it may be tempting to make cost the sole determining factor, understanding the risks and hidden expenses must be part of that decision.
A weight-loss procedure is indicated when excess pounds cannot be dropped by a strict diet regimen and exercise, and becomes life-threatening. For those diagnosed as clinically obese, normal weight loss methods simply have not worked, no matter how great the motivation or reward. In a culture obsessed by physical appearance, these individuals pay the price both physically and psychologically.
The physical problems associated with extreme overweight include type-2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and associated cardiac problems, and even gastroesophageal reflux. Most surgical procedures to encourage weight loss are specifically designed to restrict the digestive tract. Some reduce stomach size using elastic bands, while others remove a portion of the lower tract to block absorption of calories.
The majority of people in the United States today carry excess poundage, but never attain a body mass index registering 40, considered clinically obese. Those falling into that category may still not be good prospects for surgery. Even people with medical coverage are required to follow a verifiable diet and exercise program prior to approval. The process can take months, and after making that effort success is not a guaranteed result.
Besides the usual risks of undergoing invasive procedures involving anesthesia, there are common side effects to be considered. Food may move too rapidly into the intestine, resulting in painful cramping and debilitating nausea. When severe, additional procedures may be needed, further increasing overall costs. Because of these possible additional expenses, insurance providers commonly reject coverage.
Faced with paying the entire amount personally, many people choose less expensive options in Mexico, where similar procedures cost half as much, but are still a significant amount. Those seriously considering taking this course of action must decide whether savings matter more than local care. Pre-surgical testing is a requirement, and may need to be completed prior to leaving. More than one trip may be necessary.
When choosing a surgeon a background check should be completed, and patients must decide whether to return to Mexico for required post-surgical checkups, or to seek that treatment at home. Follow-up care is always important, but becomes especially necessary when overall levels of health and nutrition must be closely monitored. Devices implanted for lap-band procedures must meet U. S. Standards, or will not be qualify for treatment.
Patients must be absolutely sure that they will benefit from surgery abroad, and often begin their investigation by speaking with current health-care providers. Many have reported excellent results, but there are also anecdotal accounts of unanticipated and serious problems. While it may be tempting to make cost the sole determining factor, understanding the risks and hidden expenses must be part of that decision.
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