Bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery is an umbrella term for procedures that aid the reduction of excess weight by making changes to the digestive system, when conventional treatments (e.g., diet and exercise, medication) have not worked.

Pediatric bariatric surgery was first reviewed in 2007.

  • In 2014, the HCA director selected bariatric surgery for rereview based on newly available published evidence which could change the original coverage determination.
  • In 2023, the HCA director selected bariatric surgery for rereview based on newly available published evidence which could change the original coverage determination.

Status: Decision complete

View final findings and decision

Why is bariatric surgery being reviewed?

This topic was selected for rereview based on medium concerns about safety and high concerns about effectiveness and cost. As the Washington State Health Care Authority reviews its coverage policy for bariatric surgery, it is therefore timely to assess the evidence on the clinical benefits and cost-effectiveness of common weight loss procedures across all relevant populations, including those defined by level of obesity, age, and levels of comorbidity.

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = Medium
  • Efficacy = High
  • Cost = High

Documentation

Type Materials
Assessment (2024)
Assessment (2015)
Assessment (2007)

Assessment timeline (2024)

  • Draft key questions published: October 18, 2023
    • Public comment period: October 18 to 31, 2023
  • Final key questions published: November 15, 2023
  • Draft report published: March 4, 2024
    • Public comment period: March 4 to April 1, 2024
  • Final report published: April 22, 2024
  • HTCC public meeting: May 17, 2024
  • Draft findings and decision published: May 21, 2024
    • Public comment period: May 21 to June 3, 2024
  • Revised draft findings and decision published: June 26, 2024
    • Public comment period: June 26 to July 10, 2024
  • Final findings and decision published: July 30, 2024

 

Related links