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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | May 4, 2021 04:52 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Maureen E. Madden |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Effective Obesity Treatment Coverage |
| Bariatric surgery is a procedure of last resort for individuals who, despite adopting medically recommended weight-loss programs, cannot improve their BMI. In most, if not all, cases, bariatric surgery is the only effective method for remedying obesity-related comorbidities such as diabetes, respiratory complications, and cardiovascular diseases. It is not a decision that is taken lightly, rather, it is a decision between life and death that involves extensive pre-surgical evaluation, education, preparation, and post-operative follow up. Additionally, bariatric surgery saves on health care costs in the long run as health metrics tend to improve after surgery. All clinical trials conducted on the most common bariatric surgery procedures by the National Institute of Health have showed significant weight reduction. Further, studies show that following surgery, most patients lose weight rapidly and continue to do so until 18 to 24 months after the procedure and can maintain 50 to 60 percent loss of excess weight 10 to 14 years post-operation. Nearly 70 to 80 percent of patients who suffer from high blood pressure no longer require their medications and maintain normal blood pressure within six months post-operation. Ninety percent of patients with Type 2 diabetes enjoy reduction or complete freedom from all medications after bariatric surgery, and blood sugar levels are maintained at normal values. Patients with heartburn, high cholesterol, lower back pain, and stress urinary incontinence experience relief in of all symptoms within a few days to weeks after surgery. Despite these statistics, insurers deny about 25% of patients considering bariatric surgery three times before giving approval. During that time, a patient may experience worsening health and unavoidable, out-of-pocket medical costs. My legislation will automatically open pathways to better health for Pennsylvanians who face these challenges by requiring commercial and public insurers to cover bariatric surgery and after-care. Please join me in supporting effective, lifesaving, and cost reducing care for Pennsylvanians. |