Bariatrics

Bariatrics: Your Gateway to Better Health

Our program of bariatric surgery can help you lose weight when other methods fail. If you and your doctor have decided it’s time to consider weight loss surgery, the Sisters of Charity Hospital Bariatric Program is your top choice for care. Our program offers personalized care, education and support to ensure your surgery is a success.

Why Choose Catholic Health for Bariatric Care?

Recognized as one of the best bariatric surgery programs in the nation by HealthGrades®, the Sisters of Charity Hospital Bariatric Program provides:

A thorough initial consultation and evaluation to ensure bariatric surgery is the right option for you
Multiple bariatric procedure options, including gastric bypass and gastric sleeve, to meet your specific weight loss needs
One-on-one appointments with your bariatric surgeon
Support groups before and after surgery
Private rooms designed for bariatric surgery patients
Staff trained specifically to care for bariatric patients
Care that is accredited by the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Are You a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

To be a candidate for bariatric surgery you must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater or a BMI greater than 35 and an obesity-related illness or physical impairment. You must also:

Be at least 18 years of age
Understand the surgical procedure, its associated risks, and the lifestyle changes you have to make for it to succeed
Have more potential benefits from surgery than surgical risks
Be in a stable mental condition
Be tobacco-free for at least eight weeks before surgery

Other qualifications may apply at the discretion of your bariatric surgeon.

Main in hospital gown conversing with doctor

Steps to Weight Loss Surgery

If you believe you are a candidate for bariatric surgery, the first step is to attend an informational seminar. This seminar is mandatory and taught by one of our bariatric surgeons. You will learn about the different types of bariatric procedures and the lifestyle changes you must make for the procedure to be a success.

At the end of the seminar, you may submit your registration paperwork to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons. If the surgeon determines you are a good candidate for weight loss surgery, you must then do the following before scheduling your surgery:

Provide a letter from your primary care physician or other referring physician indicating that the surgery is a medical necessity
Prove that previous dieting attempts have not worked
Be evaluated by a psychologist and registered dietitian
Request insurance coverage; many insurance companies provide some coverage for medically necessary surgeries
Undergo other tests as needed

How quickly your surgery can be scheduled depends on how quickly you can complete these requirements.

Ready to get started? Sign up for a seminar now.

Weight Loss Support Groups

We offer support groups to weight loss surgery patients or those struggling with obesity.

Each session is led by Kristen Gill, a registered dietitian nutritionist who will foster an environment of caring, respect and encouragement as you share your stories, feelings, motivations and challenges.

Various topics on obesity, life after surgery and health and wellness will be covered.

The group meets on a quarterly basis with an extra meeting in November to focus on holiday eating.. Registration is required.

Click here to visit our events calendar and to register.