Rising Insurance Premiums Jeopardize Access to Life-Saving Weight Loss Surgery

Recent developments in Australia highlight a concerning trend where escalating insurance premiums threaten the future availability of bariatric surgery, a crucial treatment for severe obesity. As obesity continues to pose a significant public health challenge, bariatric surgery remains the most effective and durable solution for many patients. However, a survey conducted by the University of Notre Dame Australia, Flinders University, and the Australian and New Zealand Metabolic and Obesity Surgical Society reveals that 37% of bariatric surgeons are contemplating leaving the profession due to financial pressures. The survey, published in the ANZ Journal of Surgery, shows that professional indemnity insurance costs have surged by 35% over the past year, with some surgeons paying as much as $500,000 annually—averaging around $70,000. This sharp increase is driven by rising malpractice claims, with 41% of surgeons reporting at least one claim during their careers. This situation disproportionately impacts rural, regional, and Indigenous communities, where rates of severe obesity are higher and access to specialized care is limited. Experts like Associate Professor Nicholas Williams emphasize that insurance costs are forcing surgeons out of practice, thereby reducing patient access to essential procedures. While new obesity medications like Ozempic are promising, surgery remains the gold standard for long-term weight management, especially for vulnerable populations. The situation underscores the need for law reform to prevent opportunistic litigation and address the deficiencies in the current medical negligence system. With 97% of bariatric surgeries performed in the private sector, ensuring affordable and accessible care is critical for all communities, particularly those most at risk.