University Medical Center New Orleans is expanding its Center for Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery to meet the rising demand in the Greater New Orleans area. The program added three new physicians and opened a new 16-bed Transitional Recovery Unit on September 26, Center for Weight loss and Bariatric Surgery Director Dr. Michael Cook says this will provide specialized care for bariatric surgery and elective surgery patients.
“Because of the way that we approach patients, as a comprehensive approach center, the program has really blown up and we really have thousands of referrals now.”
Cook says the new unit aims to create a focused, supportive environment that promotes optimal recovery for patients.
“and are ready to anticipate any problems or prevent them before they come up will ensure that patients get better outcomes.”
UMC’s multidisciplinary team includes bariatric surgeons, dietitians, behavioral therapists, and nurse practitioners, all working together to support patients in achieving their weight loss goals. Cook says the expansion will allow the Center to provide more comprehensive care, addressing surgical and non-surgical needs to ensure patient success.
“We’re trying to shift that approach from this kind of diet mentality or one-time treatment mentality more to a this is going to be a disease that may require several treatments over the patients’ lifetime.”
The expansion of the Center will see around one thousand patients annually.
