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| PREQUALIFYING FOR SURGERY BY WORKING WITH A BARIATRIC PRACTICE : |
The National Institutes of Health set minimum requirements for recommending bariatric surgery as a treatment option:1
- 100 pounds or more above ideal body weight or a BMI of 40 or greater.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or greater with one or more obesity-related health condition
Other qualifying factors may include:
- History of documented dietary weight loss attempts.
- Lifelong commitment to dietary, exercise, and medical guidelines with follow-up care.
- Psychological evaluation.
Together, you and your bariatric surgeon will take steps to determine:
- If surgery is the right treatment for you
- Which type of procedure is best for you
- If you have, or will have, the necessary support system
- If you are mentally and emotionally prepared to make life long lifestyle changes, especially when it comes to diet and exercise habits
Selecting a bariatric surgeon is a big step. You should seek out a surgeon and a program that inspire confidence in you.
Guidelines for Choosing a Bariatric Surgeon
- Select a surgeon who is experienced in bariatric surgery.
- Find out about their credentials, board certifications and Center of Excellence status.
- Ask about the surgeon’s surgical outcomes, including complication rates and mortality rates.
- Talk to the surgeon’s postoperative patients.
Guidelines for Choosing a Bariatric Program
Choosing a bariatric program that you are comfortable with is just as important as finding the right bariatric surgeon.
A good indication of a quality program is one that is designated as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, which indicates that the program strives to deliver high quality bariatric surgical care.
Select a bariatric program that offers:
- All aspects of pre- and post-operative care, including a long-term maintenance plan and multidisciplinary care.
- A courteous, well-trained staff.
- Registered dieticians.
- A dedicated nursing staff
- Support services for psychological needs.
- A willingness to work with your primary care professionals to ensure comprehensive healthcare.
- Clean, modern facilities.
- Accommodations and travel assistance for out-of-town patients.
- Translation services for non-English speaking patients.
Next Steps
The qualification process includes a series of common medical tests. You also will meet with a nutritionist, psychologist, and other support staff members prior to surgery.
If you have concerns about bariatric surgery, click here for helpful information and viewpoints.
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