Does Medicare cover bariatric (weight-loss) surgery?
Yes, for qualifying patients. Medicare covers certain bariatric surgeries for people with morbid obesity who also have related health conditions and meet specific criteria.
Reviewed by Brad S. · Licensed Florida Health Insurance Agent
Updated June 2026. Written and reviewed by a licensed agent at United Liberty Insurance Agency LLC to ensure accuracy. We cite official sources (HealthCare.gov, CMS, KFF) wherever possible.
What you need to know
- Covered for morbid obesity (generally BMI ≥ 35) with at least one related co-morbid condition, when other treatments have failed.
- Only specific approved procedures are covered, and they must be done at qualifying facilities.
- Cosmetic weight-loss procedures are not covered.
The official rule
This coverage is governed by Medicare National Coverage Determination NCD 100.1 — “Bariatric Surgery for Treatment of Co-Morbid Conditions Related to Morbid Obesity” (last updated Apr 2025). For the official details and any recent changes, see the Medicare coverage tool at Medicare.gov.
What this means for your wallet
Coverage criteria are detailed — a licensed agent can help you understand how your specific plan handles surgery costs and facility networks.
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Related coverage questions
Source: CMS Medicare Coverage Database (National Coverage Determinations) and Medicare.gov. Coverage rules can change and may vary by situation; this page is educational and not a guarantee of coverage. For official determinations, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.