PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to provide current synthesis of the evidence on the cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery for persons with diabetes.
RECENT FINDINGS: Virtually, every study that has evaluated the cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery for persons who are obese and have type 2 diabetes has concluded that surgery is cost-effective. A few studies outside the USA found that surgery is cost-saving. Currently, most but not all US insurers cover bariatric surgery in persons with type 2 diabetes and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2. Bariatric surgery is a cost-effective treatment for persons with type 2 diabetes and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2. There is interest in extending surgery to persons with diabetes and lower BMI; the cost-effectiveness of treating these individuals with bariatric surgery should be explored. Despite the potential benefits, not all obese or overweight persons with diabetes will choose surgery.
