Program Requirements

Program Requirements

New patient orientation
Orientation is a mandatory class for all weight loss surgery candidates. You must attend an orientation prior to your first visit with our medical providers. You will hear more about the program criteria/requirements, learn more about the surgical options offered, and learn about the post op guidelines/lifestyle. Click for information, and to reserve your spot.

Medical screening (anticipate two to four visits per candidate)
Discussion, evaluation, and education with candidate by medical doctor or nurse practitioner.
History and physical examination done.
Consider endocrine, pulmonary, cardiac and other evaluations as appropriate i.e. labs, gallbladder ultrasound, desaturation study, etc.

A minimum weight loss of five percent of your weight measured at the first visit
Demonstrates ability to conform to dietary program.
Even a 10-pound weight loss will help the surgeon.
Prevents "last supper syndrome" or weight gain prior to surgery.

Support group attendance (attendance is free and the group is held on the first Tuesday evening of each month)
Attend three support group sessions pre-operatively and ongoing involvement post operatively.
Provides ongoing support, education, and answers to people who have had or will have obesity surgery.

Dietary evaluation and treatment (anticipate one to two visits pre-op and one to two visits post-op)
Initial visit to assess patient and begin weight loss program for the mandatory five percent weight loss. The goal is to educate and evaluate the patient's understanding of the strict post-op diet.

Physical therapy evaluation and treatment as needed
Initial evaluation and assess patients' current activity tolerance and works with the patient to design a map that will lead them to incorporating 30 minutes of exercise into their day five to seven days per week.

Psychologist evaluations (anticipate one visit pre-op and follow up as needed)
Screen for alcohol or substance abuses, psychopathology, and evaluates the candidates' expectations and ability to conform to the strict postoperative diet.

Surgical evaluation and discussion (anticipate at least two visits pre-op and as needed post-op)
Candidate meets surgeon and is evaluated and educated for surgery.

Bariatric Board discussion
Monthly meeting at which members of the team come together to discuss candidates. If team members are in agreement and the candidate has met pre-op requirements surgery will be scheduled.

Pre-op education class
This is a mandatory class that all candidates must attend prior to surgery. We will review post- op guidelines, diet progression; potential complications and side effects of weight loss surgery and your hospital experience/role in recovery.