Horizon Health Bariatrics Program Offers Free Consultation with a Surgeon
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Every weight loss journey begins with a first step. The Horizon Health Center for Weight Management uses a team approach that makes getting started easy, offering a free one-on-one consultation with a bariatric surgeon.
“While other area programs may provide an initial consultation, they are not typically with a surgeon," said Jean McConkey, RN, bariatric coordinator. “Meeting with a surgeon is extremely beneficial to someone who is considering bariatric surgery.”
The one-on-one consultation allows patients to learn about program specifics, explain their weight loss goals, and discuss which type of surgery is right for them. The discussion will include how weight loss surgery can positively affect existing health conditions.
Bariatric surgery is a way to help patients get their lives back when other weight loss methods have been unsuccessful, said Dr. Yaniv Cozacov, bariatric surgeon. It has been shown to increase quality of life and extend life expectancy by years.
“Bariatric surgery is the most effective long-term treatment for obesity and obesity-related diseases,” Dr. Cozacov explained. “It can significantly improve, or even eliminate, life-threatening weight-related health problems, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, hypertension [high blood pressure], nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, hyperlipidemia [high cholesterol], joint pain, sleep apnea, and much more.”
Horizon Health performs five types of weight loss surgery:
• Sleeve gastrectomy
• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
• Single anastomosis duodeno-ileostomy (SADI)
• Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch
• Lap band adjustments
The bariatrics team reviews health history, existing medical conditions, and weight loss expectations to determine which surgery best meets a patient's needs. Most procedures are done with a laparoscope using small incisions and a tiny camera through the abdomen. This is less invasive, resulting in a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain.
An integrated team approach provides patients with the support and guidance they need to achieve their goals. The team consists of the following:
- Highly trained surgeons (25-plus years of combined bariatric experience)
- Dedicated bariatric coordinator
- Bariatric dietitian
- Dedicated bariatric insurance specialist
- Behavioral health professional
- Exercise specialist
The program includes free education seminars, a monthly support group, dedicated private bariatric Facebook support group, personalized exercise guidance, a Baritastic app for weight/nutrition tracking, and much more.
A dedicated bariatric insurance specialist assists with the payment process. The specialist reviews existing insurance coverage to determine plan eligibility and maximize coverage benefits. Self-pay and payment plan options are also available.
“We provide the support our patients need through their entire journey, from the initial consult to five years after surgery,” McConkey said. “Bariatric surgery is a life-changing event, and we are here to partner with patients every step of the way.”
