Empowering Weight Loss Patients
At the Bayhealth Bariatric Program, we believe that the more people know about their health and weight loss options, the better prepared they are to make choices about their care. That’s why our team will provide specialized patient education to ensure you have all the information you need about the surgical options and know what to expect before, during and after these procedures. We’re here to guide you through the process and ensure all your questions are answered.
A one-on-one consultation with a specialist will allow you to see if this program is a good fit for you and whether or not your insurance may cover it. We also talk through some of the financial aspects of care including financial responsibility, if you are responsible for all or some of the cost, and what options are available. Financial counselors are also available at both Kent and Sussex campuses to help.
We Ensure Medical Clearance
The decision to have weight loss surgery should not be taken lightly or be hurried. As you explore your surgical weight loss options and prepare for the life-changing procedure, you will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to ensure that you are healthy enough to withstand surgery. Bayhealth Bariatric surgical weight loss patients are well prepared not only for the surgical procedure, but also for the lifelong changes that go along with it.
Bariatric surgery is not without risks. To minimize the risk of complications, it’s important to complete a rigorous series of medical clearances, including:
- Cardiac clearance, which may entail additional testing and follow-up appointments, including an EKG, stress test and echocardiogram
- Gastrointestinal screenings
- Labs—electrolytes, glucose and thyroid tests
- Medical clearance by your primary doctor within 30 to 60 days of your surgery date
- Mental health evaluation
- Nutrition education for three to six consecutive months
- Pulmonary clearance, which includes a sleep study, chest x-ray, pulmonary function studies and evaluation by a pulmonologist
- Any other needed clearance as ordered by the bariatric team
We also recommend all Bayhealth Bariatric Program patients attend at least one pre-op support group.
Bayhealth Bariatric Specialists Help you Through your Journey
The date of your surgery is a turning point on the road to weight loss and better health, but the journey lasts well beyond that. Our team will follow up with you regularly during the first year, as the most dramatic changes take place. Bayhealth Bariatric Program support groups are also an amazing supportive experience during this time, as you begin to celebrate and embrace the new you!