Deciding to undergo bariatric surgery is just one of the steps towards better health. We understand this is a big decision and that patients often have many questions before deciding to have this surgery. This page will give you some resources to understand the different types of surgery available and who may qualify for this surgery. This page also includes links to further information specifically about the Presbyterian Bariatric Center, our healthcare providers, and our team approach to providing you with support and care throughout the entire process.
If you suffer from severe obesity and an obesity-related health condition you may benefit from bariatric surgery. The first step is to contact your current health insurance provider to verify that your insurance plan covers bariatric surgery. Coverage and pre-qualifying criteria may vary based on your specific health plan.
Certain patients may be able to self-refer, depending on your insurance.
Once you have determined that your current insurance covers bariatric services, contact our office for a pre-screening evaluation with the bariatric program coordinator. This evaluation will help determine whether you are eligible for the bariatric program, based on your health plan coverage and criteria.
If you meet your health plan’s criteria for bariatric surgery, you will be invited to attend a seminar, where you will learn more about bariatric surgery and our program pathway.
Phone: (505) 253-6100
Bariatric surgery helps with weight loss but also improves many obesity-related health conditions such as:
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Type 2 diabetes
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High blood pressure
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High cholesterol
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Gastric reflux or heartburn
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Obstructive sleep apnea
If you have any of the following conditions, you may not qualify for this service. Please discuss with your healthcare provider to determine if you qualify.
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Currently smoking or using other nicotine products
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Recent drug or alcohol abuse (within one year)
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Currently being treated for any type of cancer
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Active eating disorder (within one year)
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Recent suicide attempt or mental health hospitalization (within one year)
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Not able to walk or with limited movement restrictions
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You can attend a free informational seminar to see how weight loss surgery can improve your health. For patients who live more than one hour away, we have options to help minimize travel.
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Pre- and post-operative support groups are provided every month.
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We have our own dedicated dietitians and behavioral health providers.
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All of our services are in one centralized location, for our patients’ convenience.
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We use MyChart to help improve communication for questions or concerns. Presbyterian MyChart allows you to have secure online access to your Presbyterian electronic health records. You can also send and receive messages with your care team, review test results and much more.
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You will have access to a food and activity tracking app for easier logging and accountability.
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Procedures are performed laparoscopically, reducing your recovery time and risk of complications.
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While in the hospital after surgery, you will be visited regularly by members of our care team, which helps reduce the length of your hospital stay.
Patient Resources