Bariatric surgery is unlike most elective surgeries in that long term success is at least partially dependent upon behavioral weight loss techniques. Research demonstrates improved outcomes with behavior weight loss when visit are frequent. Patients weight loss outcomes are better when done in an educational group format followed by opportunity for individual assessment. As a result developing clear expectations of what to expect from the weight loss team and the patient are important. We strive to provide regular lifelong access to our comprehensive team to guide you on your weight loss journey in a way that strives for medical excellence and impeccable customer service.
Patient Physician Contract
1. I understand that by signing the surgical consent form I am agreeing to the conditions of this patient physician contract.
2. I have educated myself about metabolic surgery including the risk, benefits, and alternatives to surgery. I have asked and assessed the answers to any and all questions necessary to help me in this decision process. My decision to have metabolic surgery is solely my own and not based upon pressure from anyone else.
3. I agree to attend all of the pre-operative and post-operative visits. I will follow the recommendations to the best of my ability. I am aware that post-operative follow up is lifelong. Our practice follow up schedule is an appointment at these intervals after metabolic surgery: 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and yearly for the rest of my life. If I am having any issues with my surgery between these interval I will get in to be seen in clinic or present to the emergency department depending upon severity of symptoms I am experiencing. If I move out of the area, I agree to find another qualified metabolic program in my new location and resume regular follow up. Participation in support groups is encouraged.
4. I agree to follow the recommended food plan. If I am struggling to maintain the plan I will get into be seen by the team.
5. I agree to take nutritional supplements as directed for the rest of my life. In the new patient class I received an estimate of the costs associated with these supplements, and I anticipate having the resources to obtain and take these for the rest of my life.
6. I agree to use all available measures to avoid pregnancy for the fist 18 months after surgery. In the peri-operative period it may be necessary to stop some forms of birth control in order to lower blood clot risk. Before attempting pregnancy I will have my vitamin levels evaluated and corrected if necessary.
7. I agree to maintain a regular physical activity and exercise routine for the rest of my life based upon the recommendations of my medical providers.
8. I agree to not change any of my medications or medication dosages without the direct guidance of my medical providers. Anytime in the future that a new medication is prescribed you should specifically talk to your provider about its potential to cause weight gain. Attempts should be made with you and your providers to avoid medications if possible that are known to cause weight gain.
9. I agree to actively participate in positive health behaviors. These include but are not limited to: very limited or abstinence from alcohol, abstinence from substance abuse, abstinence from tobacco use in any form. Actively participate with your health care team to obtain regular health screening measures such as mammograms, pap smears, colonoscopies, bone scans as appropriate.