Removal of Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band from Inpatient-only status:

This issue continues to evolve.  ASMBS is not currently aware of specific guidelines by CMS to determine which patients should be outpatient status.  These guidelines should become more consistent as companies like Interqual and Milliman incorporate this decision into their products.  Right now good judgment and close coordination with your utilization management personnel is warranted.  As has been previously stated this decision does not exclude Adjustable Gastric Band from the Inpatient list. Also Adjustable Gastric Band is still excluded from placement in the ASC environment.

ASMBS Insurance Committee is very interested to know if this decision has affected your hospital’s support of providing adjustable gastric band placement.  If you are having an issue, please contact the coding hotline at: Insurance@asmbs.org.

ASMBS Insurance Committee