Pre-Surgery Approval Process

Outlined below are the pre-surgery steps that will take place after your physician has referred you to our program:

1. Attend an Introductory Seminar. These seminars are routinely held at least once per month. Please call us at (510) 869-8972 to sign up as space is limited. Keep a note of the place and time of the seminar as it can change from month to month. Bring the completed Patient Packet to the seminar.
2. Attend the nutrition and exercise class. We will call you to sign up for this class once you have turned in paperwork from the Introductory Seminar.
3. Your physician provides us with your recent (last 3 months) history and physical, mammogram/pap smear, or fecal occult blood testing when indicated.
4. First surgeon visit. You will have an interview and examination by one of our surgeons.
5. Preliminary approval. If you meet the criteria for bariatric intervention and want to proceed, we begin our usual evaluation process that includes a dietary consultation, psychological evaluation, ultrasound of the gallbladder, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy. We also consult with a pulmonologist, cardiologist, and have you undergo sleep studies if needed.
6. Second surgeon visit. Upon completion of the work-up, you return for a second visit with the surgeon.
7. Surgery scheduling. If the surgery is to proceed, we schedule it pending insurance approval.
8. Primary care physician communication. We maintain close contact with your physician as you progress through the evaluation process.

Please call our Program at (510) 869-8972 if you have any questions, or email us at ABSMCWeight@Sutterhealth.org.