Comprehensive process

The weight-loss center at Beth Israel includes a multidisciplinary team and several steps. 

The process begins

First, my primary care doctor referred me to the weight-loss center. I called and was asked several questions to ascertain if I qualify: How overweight am I? How have I tried to lose weight in the past? Do I have conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes? 

Then, I watched an online information session that talked a bit about BI and the three surgeries (Lap-Band, gastric bypass and gastric sleeve) that they offer. Next, I went to an in-person group session (which my husband attended, too). A bariatric nurse and dietician presented, and the administrator gave an overview of the process and made appointments. I also had to attend another in-person information session (and my husband came to that one, too).

Appointments and tests, round 1

Next came the appointments and tests: blood work; abdominal ultrasound; EKG; meetings with a nurse, registered dietician and social worker who specialize in bariatric surgery; an overnight sleep study since my answers on a questionnaire indicated I likely have sleep apnea (I do); and a meeting and check-up with the medical director.

The medical director, in looking over my health history, said, "Oh, you're on antidepressants. They can cause weight gain." I nodded. "But this much?" I asked. "Double my weight?" He didn't shake his head yes or no, just shrugged a little as if to say, "Could be." (This makes me nervous since I expect to always need antidepressants.)

Throughout the process, I had to prove I understand the difference between the surgeries, and that I'm knowledgeable about basic nutrition. Information was repeated to me and by me again and again — but I'm okay with that. I'd much rather deal with an abundance of caution, especially when it comes to my health.

Team Discussion

After my initial tests and appointments were complete, I eventually came up for Team Discussion. Everyone who had met with me discussed whether I was a good candidate for surgery. After my Team Discussion, I needed to see the dietician again, with a food journal, since when I first saw her I'd only just begun making changes. We had a great meeting, and she was pleased with the changes I'd made to my eating and drinking, and the activity I'd been doing. And finally, two months after my last test was complete, I got my appointment with the surgeon. 

Meeting my surgeon

I really liked him — which is excellent considering I've committed to at least 5 years of follow-up with him. (BI requests a lifetime relationship but requires 5 years.) We went over my medical history again, what kind of surgery I want and why I chose it, and he did an exam. His nurse told me a little about what to expect in the hospital, both before and after surgery. At the end of the appointment, my surgery was scheduled.

Being treated well

For me, it's equally important to be treated well as a patient and a person. As I've said in another post, I carry lots of shame about my body. I'm happy to say that no one I've interacted with at BI has made me feel uncomfortable or ashamed. They really get it, down to things like not having too narrow chairs in the waiting rooms. I appreciate walking in knowing I'll be treated with respect.