One such specific modification in policy involves primary and revision weight loss surgery.

These policy changes have significant practical implications for those seeking surgical treatment for morbid obesity and associated co-morbidities.

First of all, they create a road block for those patients who are not able to provide documentation for the “…6 continuous months, in the 2 years prior to surgery, to enable both behavioral changes and adequate assessment of anticipated postoperative dietary maintenance.”  It also places the responsibility on the surgeon by requiring that compliance with these requiremens are “…. fully appraised and documented by the physician requesting authorization for surgery.”