I have been thinking of getting the lap band, but since have been looking into the VSG. My sister had the lap band several years ago and lost 60 lbs, but has gained most of it back. Does anyone know whether or not Tricare Standard covers this procedure. I know they cover the lap band, but I think I would prefer the Sleeve. Any help will be much appreciated.

Oh, I live in the San Diego, Ca area.

It is not covered by Tricare outside of Military Treatment facilities. If you can get a referral to a military base/post hospital program, you'll be covered, but it is NOT covered by Tricare Prime or Standard outside of MTFs that offer the sleeve.

If you are near Balboa Naval hospital, I know they accept standard patients there, and will perform the sleeve. I know one friend of mine that switched to Prime, got the referral, and the process went faster, and more smoothly for her at Balboa.

I've fought with Tricare for 2 years, had more friends get the run around, and jumped through every hoop, appeal, and even a congressional complaint to get the VSG with a civilian surgeon. To no avail, they were all still denied VSG with civilians but never had issues getting it covered at a military hospital that offers the sleeve as one of their procedures.

i also live in the san diego area and have tricare.

did you ever find out any information about the sleeve being covered.

or have u checked out balboa hospital. do u know how i would

go about maybe getting a referral to be seen there?