In the United States, the prevalence of morbid obesity is a significant public health concern. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, over 1 in 20 Americans over the age of 20 are classified as morbidly obese. This condition significantly elevates the risk of developing serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and specific types of cancer. Recognizing the critical need for effective interventions, Merit Health Wesley offers a comprehensive surgical weight loss program designed to help individuals improve their health and overall quality of life. This program utilizes surgical interventions to facilitate weight reduction and emphasizes the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Merit Health Wesley's commitment to excellence in surgical weight loss services is underscored by its accreditation from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). MBSAQIP is a collaborative initiative of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), ensuring that accredited programs meet rigorous standards for patient safety and quality of care. This accreditation signifies that Merit Health Wesley's program adheres to the highest levels of surgical expertise, patient selection, and postoperative support.
Program Overview and Objectives
The primary goal of Merit Health Wesley's surgical weight loss program is to provide individuals struggling with morbid obesity a pathway to improved health and well-being. The program aims to achieve this through surgical intervention, coupled with comprehensive support and education to promote long-term lifestyle changes. By addressing the underlying causes of obesity and providing patients with the tools and resources they need to succeed, the program seeks to empower individuals to take control of their health and achieve lasting weight loss.
Surgical Intervention for Weight Reduction
Surgical intervention is a cornerstone of Merit Health Wesley's weight loss program. These procedures are designed to alter the digestive system, limiting food intake and/or reducing nutrient absorption. The specific type of surgery recommended will depend on individual patient factors, including their overall health, weight loss goals, and preferences. The surgical team at Merit Health Wesley is highly experienced in performing a range of bariatric procedures, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and effective treatment.
Promoting a Healthier Lifestyle
While surgery is a critical component of the weight loss journey, Merit Health Wesley's program recognizes that long-term success depends on adopting and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. The program emphasizes the importance of nutrition, exercise, and behavior modification to support weight loss and prevent weight regain. Patients receive comprehensive education and counseling from a multidisciplinary team of experts, including dietitians, exercise physiologists, and psychologists. This team works collaboratively to help patients develop sustainable habits that will support their long-term health and well-being.
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Long-Term Support and Follow-Up
Merit Health Wesley understands that weight loss surgery is just the beginning of a lifelong journey. To ensure the best possible outcomes, the program provides ongoing support and follow-up care to patients after surgery. This includes regular check-ups with the surgical team, as well as access to support groups, educational resources, and individual counseling. By providing this comprehensive support network, Merit Health Wesley helps patients stay on track with their weight loss goals and address any challenges that may arise.
Eligibility Criteria
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for surgical weight loss. Merit Health Wesley's program has specific eligibility criteria to ensure that patients who undergo surgery are likely to benefit from the procedure and can safely tolerate it. Generally, candidates for weight loss surgery must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea. They must also be committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to support long-term weight loss.
Benefits of Surgical Weight Loss
Surgical weight loss can offer numerous health benefits beyond simply reducing weight. These benefits may include improved blood sugar control, lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, decreased joint pain, and a reduced risk of developing certain types of cancer. Many patients also experience improvements in their mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life. By addressing the root causes of obesity and its associated health problems, surgical weight loss can help individuals live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, weight loss surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. These risks can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual patient's health status. Potential risks may include bleeding, infection, blood clots, hernias, and nutritional deficiencies. It is essential that patients understand these risks and discuss them thoroughly with their surgical team before making a decision about surgery. Merit Health Wesley provides comprehensive pre-operative education and counseling to ensure that patients are fully informed and prepared for the procedure.
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