Are you seeking to transform your health and achieve sustainable weight loss? The GBMC (Greater Baltimore Medical Center) Weight Loss Program offers a multifaceted approach to address the complexities of weight management, providing support and guidance every step of the way. This article delves into the various components of the program, eligibility criteria, surgical and non-surgical options, and the dedicated team of professionals committed to your success.
Understanding the Need for Weight Loss Solutions
In the United States, a significant portion of the adult population struggles with weight issues. About two-thirds of American adults are overweight, and within that group, one-third are classified as obese. For individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI between 27 and 29.9 with obesity-related conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, traditional diet and exercise alone may not be sufficient to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The GBMC Weight Loss Program offers a range of solutions to meet individual needs and circumstances.
Eligibility for the Medical Weight Loss Program
The Medical Weight Loss Program at GBMC is designed for individuals who meet specific criteria. You may be eligible if:
- Your BMI is 30 or higher.
- Your BMI falls between 27 and 29.9, and you have at least one obesity-related comorbidity, such as diabetes or hypertension.
It's important to note that medication coverage eligibility depends on your insurance carrier or employer. If you are a current COMP (Comprehensive Obesity Management Program) patient who previously underwent bariatric surgery at GBMC, you cannot have a new Medical Weight Loss consultation unless you have completed your annual appointment with post-op lab work.
To determine your eligibility and discuss the program in detail, call the GBMC office at 443-849-3779 to schedule a consultation with one of the advanced practitioners. Additional program information will be sent via MyChart upon appointment scheduling.
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Comprehensive Medical Weight Loss Solutions
The GBMC Medical Weight Loss Program offers a range of services tailored to individual needs:
Medication Management
If appropriate, the program provides medication management to support your weight loss journey. A careful assessment of your medical history, including recent lab results, will be conducted to collaboratively select the most suitable medication based on your preferences, insurance coverage, availability, and appropriateness. All prescribed medications are FDA-approved for weight loss and are available through your own retail pharmacy.
Individualized Counseling
Registered dietitians offer personalized counseling to guide you through dietary changes. This counseling provides you with the knowledge and skills to make informed food choices and establish healthy eating habits.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy helps you understand the complexities of obesity and the reasons behind weight gain. This therapy equips you with strategies to modify behaviors and develop a healthier relationship with food.
Surgical Weight Loss Options: Bariatric Surgery
For individuals with a BMI over 35, bariatric surgery may be a viable option. The GBMC Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP) offers a range of surgical procedures, including:
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Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
In this procedure, most of the stomach is sealed off, leaving only a small pouch. This pouch is then connected to the middle of the small intestine, bypassing the bottom portion of the stomach and the top portion of the small intestine. This method restricts food intake and prevents the body from absorbing all of the food eaten, leading to weight loss and improved blood sugar levels.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
During this procedure, most of the stomach is removed, leaving a long, tube-like "sleeve." The basic anatomy of the digestive system remains unchanged. The gastric sleeve reduces stomach size and appetite.
The doctors noted that people between the ages of 18 and 80 could be candidates for bariatric surgery if they have a body mass index (BMI) of over 40 or over 35 if they have diabetes.
Bariatric surgery at GBMC is minimally invasive, utilizing laparoscopic or robotic techniques.
The Importance of Lifestyle Changes After Surgery
While bariatric surgery can be a powerful tool for weight loss, it is not a "magic wand." To maintain weight loss, it is crucial to change your habits and eating patterns. Dr. Dovec emphasizes the importance of eating more frequently - three meals a day - and prioritizing protein to stay full. Avoiding carbs, added sugars, and minimizing snacking are also essential for long-term success.
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GBMC's Commitment to Excellence in Bariatric Care
GBMC's COMP program is committed to providing the highest standards of surgical care. As an American College of Surgeons (ACS) Surgical Quality Partner, GBMC has earned national recognition as a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). This accreditation signifies that GBMC meets comprehensive, nationwide surgical quality standards aimed at ensuring the safe and effective performance of metabolic and bariatric surgery. Research shows that accredited centers experience fewer complications and better outcomes than non-accredited facilities.
GBMC is also recognized as a Blue Distinction Center+ in Maryland for its expertise and efficiency in delivering bariatric care. The program has received the Healthgrades Bariatric Surgery Excellence Award since 2021, recognizing its superior patient outcomes in bariatric surgery. Additionally, GBMC is an Optum Center of Excellence.
In 2024, 342 bariatric surgeries were performed at GBMC, with 96% having no intraoperative or postoperative complications within 30 days of surgery.
Comprehensive Support Services
GBMC's COMP program understands that bariatric surgery requires a lifelong commitment and offers a variety of support services to help patients before, during, and after their procedures. These services include:
- Preoperative nutrition classes
- Postoperative support groups
- A walking group (COMP Stomp)
Meet the Dedicated COMP Team
The GBMC COMP team is comprised of a diverse group of professionals dedicated to supporting patients throughout their weight loss journey:
- Jana: The lead dietitian of the GBMC COMP team since July 2016. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and enjoys running support groups and guiding patients to achieve their goals.
- Summer L.: Joined the Comprehensive Obesity Management Program in 2016. She is an exam Certified Bariatric Nurse (CBN) through the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS).
- Melissa: Joined the C.O.M.P. Team in May of 2022. She holds a Certificate of Advanced Education in Obesity Medicine through the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) and enjoys providing education to patients and watching them succeed.
- Madison: Joined the COMP team in June 2022. She completed her dietetic internship and Masters program at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
- Samantha: Joined GBMC COMP in November 2020 as the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Coordinator and Clinical Reviewer.
- Shanay Davis: The Surgical Coordinator who requests, tracks, and obtains pre-certifications/authorizations for bariatric procedures.
- Shawna: Began her career with the COMP Team in September 2021 and is pursuing her Bachelor’s in Health Administration.
- Daysia: Joined the COMP team in July of 2021 as the medical assistant for the department.
- Leland: Is a dedicated individual with a strong passion for healthcare and making a positive impact in people's lives.
Overcoming Misconceptions About Bariatric Surgery
It's important to address the misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery. Dr. Dovec explains that "there are misconceptions about people who have bariatric surgery. For some people, there’s a stigma attached to it." The GBMC COMP program aims to dispel these myths and provide accurate information about the benefits and requirements of bariatric surgery.