Accessing Super for Bariatric Surgery
Patients may be able to access their superannuation to help fund approved bariatric surgery under the compassionate release provisions, provided they meet ATO eligibility criteria.
Super for Health provides trusted, compliant support to guide patients and practitioners through this process, ensuring the pathway aligns with ATO regulations and safeguards patient wellbeing.
When the Cost of Surgery Becomes a Barrier to Health
Bariatric surgery is a life-changing medical intervention, but it often comes with significant out-of-pocket costs.
While Medicare may cover some components of surgery in public hospitals, access is limited and private treatment is often necessary for timely care. Unfortunately, private health insurance doesn’t always provide full cover—particularly for associated procedures or pre-surgical assessments.
Patients who meet the ATO’s eligibility criteria, such as having a life-threatening illness or chronic condition that causes acute or chronic pain, may be able to access their superannuation to fund approved bariatric surgery. This can be a vital step toward improving health, mobility, and quality of life.
Helping Patients Take Control of Their Health
We understand the medical and emotional significance of bariatric surgery for patients who are managing obesity-related health conditions. With the support of their medical team, patients may be able to access superannuation early to remove the financial barriers to this treatment. The ATO requires that eligible expenses must relate to the treatment of a diagnosed medical condition and be recommended by a medical practitioner. Common treatment categories that may be eligible include:
Bariatric Surgical Procedures
Covers approved procedures such as gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or lap band surgery.
Pre-Operative Assessments
Includes medical imaging, blood tests, psychological evaluations, and dietary assessments.
Hospital and Anaesthetist Fees
May include fees related to private hospital admission and surgical team support.
Post-Operative Care and Follow-Up
Covers dietician appointments, psychological support, and follow-up surgical reviews where medically necessary.
Built on Ethics,
Backed by Experience.
At Super for Health, trust is at the heart of everything we do. Our patient-first approach, unwavering commitment to compliance, and deep industry expertise make us the trusted choice for superannuation access in healthcare.
By aligning with ATO and healthcare standards, we ensure every application is handled with the utmost integrity, giving patients and healthcare professionals peace of mind.
“Accessing my super was vital—I simply couldn’t afford treatment otherwise. The process was quick, straightforward, and my case manager was incredibly kind and helpful. Thanks to Super for Health, I was able to get the care I needed, relieve chronic pain, and improve my health.”
Considerations before applying
Applying for compassionate release of superannuation involves understanding the following:
Compliance with Regulations
Applications must align with ATO guidelines to avoid delays or rejections.
Medical Assessment
Patients must consult with their dentist to create a treatment plan that outlines the required procedures and their medical necessity.
Tax Implications
Depending on your age, releasing funds early may result in a tax liability. You may need to pay tax on any amount withdrawn, which could impact your overall financial situation.
Required Documentation
Applicants must provide comprehensive medical evidence and may be required to submit financial documentation to support their case.
At Super for Health, we ensure patients and practitioners are equipped with the knowledge and support needed to navigate these requirements seamlessly.
How Super for Health Can Help
Expert Guidance
We assist patients in understanding their eligibility and preparing their applications in compliance with ATO standards.
Support for Medical Practitioners
We provide resources and expertise to help practitioners certify applications ethically and accurately.
Ethical and Transparent Approach
Our process prioritises integrity and ensures that all cases meet the highest compliance standards.
For Bariatric Practitioners
We work closely with bariatric specialists and weight-loss surgery clinics across Australia to provide a smooth, secure, and compliant process for early super access. Our service is designed to support your patients while easing the burden on your administrative team.
By working with Super for Health, your clinic benefits from:
- A trusted, transparent partner in early super applications.
- Dedicated case managers with experience in surgical applications.
- Secure, privacy-compliant systems and documentation workflows.
- Reporting tools to help you monitor and manage patient progress.
Learn More
For Medical Practitioners
Explore how Super for Health supports medical practices with ethical, compliant, and patient-first solutions for accessing superannuation for medical treatments.
For Patients
Learn how Super for Health helps patients navigate the compassionate release of superannuation with expert guidance and clear, transparent support.