Surgeons’ and payers’ perceptions of barriers to accessing bariatric and metabolic surgery in Argentina: An exploratory qualitative study

The implementation of bariatric and metabolic surgery presents structural and functional challenges that affect equitable and timely access. Although Law 26 396 and its subsequent regulations established a regulatory framework for its coverage, tensions among healthcare system actors and regional disparities have resulted in heterogeneous implementation. Administrative and financial barriers persist, affecting its effective and timely practice. We highlight the need to strengthen coordination between physicians and health insurance providers, promoting opportunities for dialogue that optimize authorization and funding processes.