A growing body of studies suggest that bariatric surgery may be effective at reversing the onset of Type 2 diabetes. But this may not be the only good news! In light of these studies, the U.S. Medicare program is seriously considering expanding reimbursement for obese people undergoing bariatric surgery.

Millions of American men and women are afflicted by Type 2 diabetes. This metabolic condition may be worsened by weight gain. And unfortunately, the nation’s obesity rates continue to increase. A study conducted from 1976-1980 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that 15% of American men and women were considered obese. The agency again conducted this study from 2003-2004, and found that obesity rates had jumped to 33% among American men and women. Additionally, the CDC found that from 1980-2005, the number of diabetic Americans had increased from 5.6 million to 15.8 million.

Provided by the U.S. Government, Medicare is charged with providing proper care for 44 million elderly Americans. For certain patients — typically those classified as “morbidly obese” — the U.S. Government is already paying for the surgery.

On its website www.medicare.gov, the health program said it “will assess the nature of the scientific evidence supporting surgery for the treatment of diabetes.” In addition, Medicare is considering whether or not to establish a “national coverage decision,” which would provide reimbursement for all recipients. Medicare is also considering whether or not to cover weight-loss surgery for diabetes alone.