Bariatric Vitamin Assistance Programs

There are many factors that contribute to long term use and consistency of taking bariatric vitamins after surgery. One that can have a profound impact on whether or not someone can take their vitamins is the cost. 

For individuals who are struggling to pay for vitamins due to financial hardship, there are some resources available! 

Central California Surgery has been able to assist patients who qualify to apply to the Bariatric Advantage RECOVER program. I felt it was time to have a blog post dedicated to this helpful resource and what to expect.

What is a vitamin assistance program?

Certain bariatric vitamin companies offer cost savings for individuals that have had bariatric surgery and are experiencing a time of financial hardship. These programs may cover a percentage of the total cost of the vitamins or offer free vitamins for a temporary period of time.

Is it hard to sign up?

No. With the Bariatric Advantage RECOVER program, our office submits a request on behalf of the patient who has a compelling reason or need to participate in the program.

How do I know if I qualify?

For the Bariatric Advantage RECOVER program, Central California Surgery simply needs an explanation of the financial hardship. 

How long do the benefits from the RECOVER program last for?

The Bariatric Advantage RECOVER program provides a 3 month (free) supply of vitamins to a patient, once in their lifetime. It is important to only use this program when it is truly necessary, as you can only be offered this once in your lifetime. 

Can I apply again in the future?

No. The Bariatric Advantage RECOVER program only allows an applicant to receive the service once in their lifetime. However, you may be able to apply to a different program to determine eligibility.  

Why take bariatric vitamins?

For individuals that have the LOOP or Standard Duodenal Switch or revision surgeries, bariatric vitamins are the best option for reducing the risk of developing a vitamin deficiency. This is why we only recommend bariatric vitamins for these particular surgeries. 

Can I take regular vitamins that are found at CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, or my local pharmacy?

For individuals that have had the Lap Band, Sleeve and Gastric Bypass surgeries, this is an option that might offer some cost savings.

For these procedures, we recommend 500mg of Calcium Citrate 2 x/day.

For the Sleeve and Lap Band, it is also important to take 1 multivitamin and 1 Vitamin B-50 Complex tablet each day.

For the Gastric Bypass, it is important to take 2 multivitamins, 1000mcg Vitamin B12, and a B-50 Complex tablet each day.

Other Bariatric Vitamin Assistance Programs

Celebrate Assist: This program offers two options. One is for individuals who are experiencing temporary hardship, and another for those in fixed low-income households. Approval is not guaranteed by simply applying. Once someone has completed the online application, and has been accepted into the Celebrate Assist program, they need to reapply every 3 months. 

Bariatric Zone Vitamin Assistance Program: This program is partnered with Bariatric Complete to provide vitamin assistance to those who are in need. An application must be completed along with proof of income and any government funding received for medical, housing, and food stamps and sent to bariatriczone@gmail.com. If accepted into the program, individuals can expect to receive either reduced priced or free supplements depending on the qualifying criteria provided.