Qualifying for Bariatric Surgery

Qualifying for bariatric surgery includes a process you participate in with your bariatric program. Each bariatric program’s process is different, and your health insurance company may require certain steps, but you generally can expect to do the following.

Attend an Information Seminar

Most bariatric programs provide a free information seminar for people considering bariatric surgery. You’ll learn about:

-	The health risks of morbid obesity
-	Bariatric surgery, including specific procedures, such as gastric bypass and gastric banding, health benefits, and risks of surgery
-	In-depth overview of the qualification process

If you are interested in taking the next step, most bariatric programs will help you book an appointment to discuss your options with a surgeon after the seminar.

Evaluate How You Will Pay For Surgery

It is essential that you research the costs of bariatric surgery in order to be able to determine the amount you will be responsible for. Factors to consider when deciding how to pay for surgery should include the following:

-	Your health insurance plan and whether it is applicable to your situation
-	Whether you could self-pay for surgery and/or take out a bank loan

Attend an Initial Appointment with Your Surgeon

You must meet with a surgeon to discuss your health condition and decide together if bariatric surgery is the best choice for you. Be prepared to tell your surgeon your complete medical history by:

-	Writing down a history of your weight loss attempts such as weight loss programs, medication, and gym memberships; use the easy-to-print Diet History.
-	Bringing any medications that you currently are taking.
-	Bringing the names and telephone and fax numbers of any doctors you are currently under the care of or have seen previously (to transfer any medical information, such as medical history or results of medical tests)
-	Asking questions and sharing concerns with your surgeon
-	Fully answering all questions honestly—your surgeon is not there to judge you… your surgeon is there to provide care to you.

Participate in Medical Tests

Generally, your bariatric surgeon will order a series of medical tests. These medicals tests are used to diagnose any undetected health conditions, assess whether bariatric surgery is appropriate for you, and ensure that you are properly cared for during surgery. Commonly performed tests include urine and blood tests, EKG (test to diagnose heart conditions), and a psychological evaluation.

The psychological evaluation is performed by a behavioral health professional to determine:

-	Your understanding of the risks of bariatric surgery
-	If you have a current substance abuse issue or a history of substance abuse
-	If you have an emotional health condition
-	Your ability to handle stress
-	Your social and family history

Attend Support Groups

Pre-operative patients are encouraged to attend support groups regularly. Many bariatric program support groups include both pre- and post-operative patients. This is a great opportunity to see the successes and challenges that most bariatric surgery patient faces.

Participate in Counseling

Your bariatric program will provide you with counseling to guide you through lifestyle changes. Dietary counseling generally is performed by a registered dietician or nutritionist. She or he will teach you about healthy food choices and good practices, such as measuring portions and keeping a food journal.

Exercise counseling is a resource that many bariatric programs provide to help patients develop physical activity habits. A licensed fitness professional who is experienced with bariatric surgery patients can help develop a practical exercise plan. A typical plan focuses on aerobic activities to improve overall cardiovascular fitness as well as resistance exercises and weight training to maintain and strengthen muscles. This allows your body to maintain muscle mass, while burning fat.

And remember…

Only you and your surgeon can decide if bariatric surgery is best for you. To find a surgeon in your community, use the BariatricEdge.com Surgeon Locator.