The Truth About Expanding Lap-Band Insurance Coverage

Lap-Band insurance coverage is a controversial subject. On the one hand, many Americans believe that being overweight or obese is a personal "choice," and that if an obese person chooses surgery over lifestyle change, insurance should not cover something that costs thousands of dollars when the alternative is free.
On the other hand, many Americans also believe that with the obesity crisis consuming almost $150 million in annual health care spending, anything that can prevent the continuing spread of obesity is a worthwhile investment. Obesity-related diseases certainly affect the workplace, so why shouldn't companies and insurance plans cover a procedure that would allow workers to be more productive?