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.
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.