Dear Angela Pitt,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing as a concerned citizen and advocate for equitable healthcare access in Alberta. I would like to bring to your attention a pressing issue related to the coverage of body contouring surgery for patients who have successfully lost weight through lifestyle and medical treatment, as opposed to solely covering those who have undergone bariatric surgery.

While Alberta Health Services has made considerable strides in supporting individuals in their weight loss journeys through lifestyle, medical and surgical interventions, there remains a significant gap in access to post-weight loss excess skin surgery. Currently, Alberta Health primarily covers the surgery only for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery. This discrepancy in coverage creates an unjust disparity, as many patients achieve remarkable weight loss through alternative means, such as diet, exercise, and medical treatment.  This is even more pertinent in the light of new and emerging medications for treating this chronic disease.

This surgery is not merely a cosmetic procedure; it plays a crucial role in the overall well-being and mental health of individuals who have undergone substantial weight loss. After losing a significant amount of weight, patients often experience excess skin that can cause physical discomfort, hygiene issues, and emotional distress. Body contouring surgery can alleviate these issues, improve patients' quality of life, and enhance their self-esteem.

I respectfully urge you to consider the following actions:

Expand Coverage: Advocate for a more inclusive healthcare policy that extends coverage for excess skin surgery to patients who have achieved significant weight loss through lifestyle and medical treatment.
Medical Necessity Evaluation: Encourage Alberta Health Services to assess the surgery on a case-by-case basis, considering medical necessity and the impact on the individual's physical and mental health.
Awareness and Education: Promote awareness and education about the benefits of excess skin body surgery after significant weight loss, emphasizing its medical and psychological importance.
Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers to develop guidelines that ensure fair access to the procedure based on individual needs and circumstances.
By taking these steps, Alberta can demonstrate its commitment to equitable healthcare access and the well-being of its residents who have achieved significant weight loss through various means. This change in policy would positively impact the lives of many Albertans and contribute to their overall health and happiness.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and your dedication to the well-being of our community. I am confident that, with your support, we can work towards a more inclusive healthcare system that addresses the needs of all individuals who have undergone remarkable weight loss transformations.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Erica