Weight Loss Surgery Considering Weight Loss Surgery 2

Question 1

Which insurance criterion is most commonly required before approving bariatric surgery?

Accepted Answer

BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with obesity-related comorbidities

Answer

Most US insurers follow NIH guidelines requiring BMI ≥ 40 or BMI ≥ 35 with at least one serious obesity-related condition.

Question 2

What does 'malabsorptive' mean in the context of weight loss surgery?

Accepted Answer

The surgery reduces the body's ability to absorb calories and nutrients

Answer

Malabsorptive procedures reroute the digestive tract so fewer calories and nutrients are absorbed from food.

Question 3

Which of the following is a primary psychological contraindication for weight loss surgery?

Accepted Answer

Untreated severe psychiatric disorder such as active psychosis

Answer

Active, untreated serious psychiatric illness can impair a patient's ability to comply with post-op requirements and is a contraindication.

Question 4

How long must most US insurance programs require documented non-surgical weight loss attempts before approving bariatric surgery?

Accepted Answer

3 to 6 months

Answer

Most insurance plans require 3–6 months of physician-supervised diet and exercise before authorizing surgery.

Question 5

Which specialist is typically NOT part of the standard pre-surgical bariatric evaluation team?

Accepted Answer

Dermatologist

Answer

A dermatologist is not routinely included; the core team consists of the surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and often an internist.

Weight Loss Surgery Practice Test