Does TRICARE cover bariatric surgery?

TRICARE covers bariatric surgery as a treatment for clinically severe obesity when specific medical criteria are met and pre-authorization is obtained. Covered procedures include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. To qualify, beneficiaries must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one serious comorbid condition such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, or coronary heart disease. Prior to surgery, patients must complete a minimum six-month multidisciplinary supervised weight management program demonstrating compliance with dietary, exercise, and behavioral modifications. The surgery must be performed at a TRICARE-authorized bariatric center of excellence. Post-operative care including nutritional counseling, follow-up visits, and treatment of surgical complications is also covered under the TRICARE benefit.