Bariatric / Gastric Bypass Surgeons near Winston Salem, NC
We found 13 results within 10 miles for "Bariatric / Gastric Bypass Surgeons near Winston Salem, NC"
Biography: Mandy Sperle, NP is a Bariatric Surgery Specialist who practices in Kernersville, NC. Mandy Sperle, NP is affiliated with Novant Winston-Salem NC.


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Care Philosophy: ``I welcome all patients in my practice of all ethnicities, creed and sexual orientations of all walks of life.``


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Biography: Even in my early teens, I knew I wanted to be a physician. I was fascinated by anatomy, loved science and was precise at dissection. Surgery was definitely my calling. \n Being the child of first-generation immigrants meant several messages were ingrained in my siblings and me. Our parents expected us to work hard, finish what we started, push to succeed and never complain. \n I had a wonderful mentor during my residency who shared with me his surgical mantra: "Treat every patient like they are your mother." I took it to heart and adopted it as my mantra, too. I believe this wholeheartedly and continue to operate with this thought in mind. \n When it comes to robotic surgery, I was an early adopter. I have performed more than 1,500 robotic procedures. I even test other surgeons on their robotics skills once they have completed training. In my role as a robotic proctor, I travel the country and evaluate and "sign off" on surgeons who have completed robotics training. \n I have founded two bariatric centers and built them into established Bariatric Surgery Centers of Excellence (BSCOE). The BSCOE designation helps patients identify surgeons who provide the safest and most effective treatments. The robotic center in High Point I founded was awarded the first robotic epicenter in North Carolina by the Intuitive Surgical group in 2019. \n I'm a member of the American Board of Surgery and SAGES (Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons) and am a fellow of both the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. \n My hobbies include coaching and helping with my kids' travel sports, playing golf and tennis, cooking, painting and woodworking. I most enjoy traveling - and just hanging out - with my wife.

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Biography: Dr. Joshua Rickey is a board-certified general surgeon with Novant Health Salem Surgical Associates. "Josh," as he often tells his patients to call him, has been a member of Salem Surgical for six years. Originally from the coast of South Carolina, Josh completed his undergraduate studies at Clemson University in Biochemistry. He then went on to attend medical school at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston, South Carolina. After completing medical school in 2010, he continued into general surgery residency at MUSC. During his time at MUSC, he was known for his teaching of medical students and residents, having earned multiple teaching awards and being recognized as the Max S. Rittenbury Intern of the Year. Driven by an interest in the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery, as well as the application of new technologies, Josh then completed a bariatric and minimally invasive surgery fellowship at then Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. He says that the possibility of helping people with surgery for a disease that can be a lifelong struggle has always intrigued him. After completion of his fellowship in Charlotte, Josh joined his family in Winston-Salem, going on to complete an additional year of training in the Transition to Practice Fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Health. \n Josh elected to stay in Winston-Salem as he felt it reminded him of his hometown with a close-knit group of people, offering a small town feel in a big city. Here they have grown to love the community and surroundings. Since joining Salem Surgical, he has been excited to offer new technologies and techniques to address the medical issues of his patients from Winston-Salem and surrounding areas. A supporter of the application of the robot in surgery, Josh has been able to help multiple patients with complex problems recover faster and with less pain as they return to their lifestyles. He feels it is important to help people get back to "normal" as quickly as they can and feels that use of the robot will allow patients that opportunity. \n His approach to medicine may be a little different, as he feels it is important to partner with the patient. Josh likes to maintain a personal relationship with the patient and work with them actively to be involved with their care and decision making. He strives to help patients understand the issues and the choices, personalizing the plan for each patient. His belief is, "education and understanding are key to good outcomes." \n Josh has been excited by bariatrics since his training and has been actively seeking to help provide that service to the people of Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas. Helping patients achieve goals they thought were not possible has always driven Josh. When approached about helping Novant Health start bariatrics at Clemmons, Josh was happy to finally be able to help provide additional services to the population. His care and planning show as he describes helping patients navigate the process of approval, evaluation and preparing for surgery. "We at Salem Surgical want to provide a seamless and smooth process for patients," Josh said. "We want them to have a pleasant experience navigating what can be a confusing situation and most importantly, we want them to know we are here for them." He is excited about being able to apply the robot to patients undergoing weight loss surgery as a method to help improve recovery and outcomes. \n When not at work, Josh spends time with his family (wife Ashley and two children). With his office littered with tiger paws and orange, it's obvious he is an ardent Clemson University fan. At any given time, you are likely to see him in some form of orange or purple, whether at the office or simply out and about. Don't be surprised during fall Fridays to catch him wearing orange (a custom in Clemson). As people around the office have heard him say, "On Fridays we wear orange." In the fall, he and his family enjoy attending football games and cheering the Tigers on to victory. Other times, he and his family enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking, playing sports together, riding bikes or just spending time together.

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Biography: I have been a surgeon since 1993 and have been the director for bariatric surgery at High Point and now in Kernersville and Winston-Salem for more than 20 years. For the last 12 years I have focused entirely on bariatrics procedures in Kernersville. I have maintained Novant Health's bariatric program's Center of Excellence status for the last 20 years. We perform metabolic surgeries to help patients live longer and better by improving many weight-related problems including diabetes and high blood pressure. The nice "side effect" is our patients also lose a significant amount of weight. \n Our program involves care from nutritionists, counselors, exercise trainers and medical bariatricians. All of our team members are dedicated solely to bariatric/weight management. Surgery, while important, is reserved for patients who cannot achieve their goals without an operation as a tool to success. Operations typically take 30 to 60 minutes laparoscopically and involve an overnight stay at the hospital. \n I'm active in professional associations in my field and am a fellow for the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the American College of Surgeons (ASC). I still enjoy being in the classroom. I serve as a clinical preceptor for Wake Forest University and a teaching professional for Ethicon, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. \n Outside work, you might find me volunteering at the Humane Society, cycling or hiking. I also love to travel and, most importantly, spend time with my family.

- Offers Telehealth
Biography: I was drawn to becoming a physician because a career in medicine offers the unique combination of science, problem-solving and helping others. I chose to focus on surgery because it can resolve illnesses. This is particularly true with bariatric (weight loss) surgery, which can cure or prevent complications from diseases like diabetes. Long-term studies have proven that bariatric surgery is the most effective and durable weight loss treatment, but each patient must be prepared to actively participate in a multidisciplinary program. This includes nutrition, behavioral and exercise counseling. Therefore, my team and I carefully screen each patient. Then we discuss your unique health situation and all the options with you so that we can make the best weight management decisions together. I have trained extensively to become a bariatric surgeon, including completing a fellowship in metabolic & bariatric surgery in 2022, after graduating from general surgery residency in 2021. However, learning is a lifelong journey, so I am continuously training in the latest techniques for minimally invasive laparoscopic, robotic and bariatric surgery. I am certified as a diplomate of the American Board of Medicine and recognized as a fellow of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS). I serve as the metabolic & bariatric surgery director at Forsyth Medical Center and co-founded its bariatric program. In addition to bariatric surgery, I also perform minimally invasive general surgery such as hernia, appendix, gallbladder and colon surgeries. I am an active member of Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) and American College of Surgeons. During my general surgery residency, I was recognized as the surgery intern of the year in 2017, surgery resident of the year in 2018 and chief resident of the year in 2021. In my free time, I enjoy swimming, pickleball and traveling with my wife and our 2 daughters.

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Biography: Jamie Szymarek, FNP is a Bariatric Surgery Specialist who practices in Kernersville, NC. Jamie Szymarek, FNP is affiliated with Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center.

- Offers Telehealth

- Offers Telehealth

Biography: I first developed an interest in medicine when I was in high school because I had a lot of sports-related injuries, which required surgery. When I observed how the surgical team, nursing staff, and physical therapist took care of me through my long rehabilitation, I immediately knew I wanted to become a doctor and help others in the same way. I grew up doing carpentry, home remodeling, and other woodworking, which made surgery the obvious choice for specialty once I began medical school. I was drawn to surgery because I love working with my hands, problem-solving, the evolving technology of surgery, and the ability to fix something that is broken. As a general surgeon, it is my duty to stay up to date with the most current technological advances in order to provide my patients with the best possible care. Through the extensive robotic and complex laparoscopic surgery techniques that I learned during my residency at the Medical University of South Carolina, I can offer my patients minimally invasive surgical options, which result in less pain and a quicker and smoother recovery.\n During my training and career, I have been awarded the administrative chief resident position and Wendell M. Levi Jr MD Award for Surgical Leadership. I have also been honored as an ESPN Academic All-American Nominee while I was playing Quarterback at Catawba College during my undergraduate years. In my free time, I am a family man first and foremost.\n I enjoy spending time with my wife, Faith, and my 3 young children Madelyn, Charlotte, and Miller. Our children keep us quite busy with swimming, gymnastics, and soccer practices. As a native of Durham, I am an avid Duke fan. I also enjoy supporting Catawba College in nearby Salisbury, where I played football as an undergrad. My family and I love the beach, especially Charleston, SC where we spent 5 years during my residency training.

- Appt. wasn't rushed (1)
- Listened/answered questions (1)
- Explains conditions well (1)
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Care Philosophy: ``I welcome all patients in my practice of all ethnicities, creed and sexual orientations of all walks of life.``

Biography: Nichole Rahenkamp, FNP is a Bariatric Surgery Specialist who practices in Kernersville, NC. Nichole Rahenkamp, FNP is affiliated with Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center.

- Offers Telehealth

Biography: Crystal Denison, PA-C is a Bariatric Surgery Specialist who practices in Winston Salem, NC. Crystal Denison, PA-C is affiliated with Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center.

Biography: Mandy Sperle, NP is a Bariatric Surgery Specialist who practices in Kernersville, NC. Mandy Sperle, NP is affiliated with Novant Winston-Salem NC.

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Learn more about Bariatric / Gastric Bypass Surgeons and how to choose the right one for you
A bariatric surgeon specializes in treating obesity in people who have not had success with medical weight loss programs. Bariatric surgeons perform weight loss surgery, such as gastric banding and gastric bypass, and manage long-term weight loss. A bariatric surgeon focuses on the health needs of people who have clinically severe obesity (also called morbid obesity) or obesity-related health problems.
A bariatric surgeon typically:
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Evaluates your medical history and your previous attempts at medical weight loss
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Performs a physical exam
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Orders and interprets imaging exams, laboratory tests, and psychological evaluations
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Prescribes medications and vitamin supplements
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Performs surgical procedures on your digestive tract to promote weight loss and long-term weight maintenance
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Recommends dietary and nutritional counseling
A bariatric surgeon may also be known as a weight loss surgeon, metabolic surgeon, or obesity surgeon. Other professional titles include gastric bypass or gastric band surgeon if the surgeon specializes in a particular type of weight loss surgery.
There are 13 specialists practicing Bariatric Surgery in Winston Salem, NC with an overall average rating of 4.2 stars. There are 6 hospitals near Winston Salem, NC with affiliated Bariatric Surgery specialists, including Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center and Novant Health Clemmons Medical Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a top-rated Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC?
How can I find a top-rated Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC?
Healthgrades gives you the tools and information you need to find high-quality care, including top-rated Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC. You can filter your search results to a specific Rating threshold, or go to “Top Rated” to quickly view Bariatric Surgery Specialists with our highest patient ratings.
Every Healthgrades profile includes information about the factors that matter most when choosing care, including a Bariatric Surgery Specialist's education, board certification, and experience. You can even see which specific conditions a doctor treats most often.
Healthgrades also spotlights high-quality healthcare professionals by identifying them as “Healthgrades Choice.” This badge indicates that a physician has above average experience, good patient ratings, no healthcare sanctions, and affiliations with quality hospitals.
Finally, you can read reviews and ratings from verified patients about their experiences with a doctor.
Together, all of these factors provide a comprehensive picture of Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC so you can make an informed, confident decision about the care you receive.
How can I share my experience after visiting a Bariatric Surgery Specialist through Healthgrades?
How can I share my experience after visiting a Bariatric Surgery Specialist through Healthgrades?
Patient ratings and reviews are an important tool in helping other people like yourself make informed healthcare choices. If you read patient reviews as part of your decision-making process, you can pay it forward by sharing your own experience with a Bariatric Surgery Specialist.
After your visit, you can visit your Bariatric Surgery Specialist's profile and go to “Leave a Review.” From here you will be required to provide a star rating from 1 to 5 to reflect how likely you are to recommend that doctor. You can also leave an optional text review about your experience.
You will be required to submit your email address so Healthgrades can confirm your review, and you must verify that you received treatment from the physician and agree to Healthgrades terms and conditions.
How can I find a Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC who speaks a specific language other than English?
How can I find a Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC who speaks a specific language other than English?
Finding a Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC with whom you can communicate effectively is an essential part of finding quality care. You can go to “All Filters” on your Healthgrades search results and scroll to “Language.” From there, you narrow your search to physicians who speak your selected language(s).
Healthgrades lets you filter by more than 100 languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Hindu, Urdu, Tagalog, and American Sign Language.
How can I find Bariatric Surgery Specialists within a specific distance from my location?
How can I find Bariatric Surgery Specialists within a specific distance from my location?
Go to “Distance” on your Healthgrades search results page and select the distance range you would be willing to travel for your visit, such as 1 miles, 5 miles, 10 miles, 25 miles, 50 miles, 100 miles, or nationwide.
You can also go to “Top Rated” to quickly view a list of 4-star and above-rated Bariatric Surgery Specialists within 10 miles of your selected location.
Keep in mind: The right specialist for you may not be among the ones closest to you, and it may be worth expanding your search to find the highest-quality care.
How can I search for Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC specializing in a specific sub-specialty or niche area?
How can I search for Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC specializing in a specific sub-specialty or niche area?
After your initial specialty search, Healthgrades allows you to narrow your search to specific conditions or practicing areas within that specialty.
On your Healthgrades search results page, go to “Practice Area.” From here you can select specific conditions or subspecialties that more directly reflect the type of care you need.
How can I find Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC with availability that aligns with my schedule?
How can I find Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC with availability that aligns with my schedule?
You can filter your Healthgrades search results based on appointment availability, including options such as same-day, tomorrow, or within 2 weeks. Under “All Filters,” scroll to “Availability” and select the appointment timeframe you need.
You can also contact a Bariatric Surgery Specialist's office directly to ask about appointment availability, including same-day availability or unexpected cancellations that may have opened up new appointments in your desired timeframe.
How can I locate Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC affiliated with a specific facility or hospital?
How can I locate Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC affiliated with a specific facility or hospital?
Finding a Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC with affiliations at high-quality hospitals is key to a successful treatment outcome. Healthgrades lets you filter your search to doctors who have admitting privileges at the hospital(s) you prefer.
Go to “All Filters” on your Healthgrades search results, then scroll to “Affiliated Facility.” From here you can select one or more preferred hospitals to narrow your search to specialists with affiliations at those facilities.
How can I find Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC who offer LGBTQ+ affirming care on Healthgrades?
How can I find Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC who offer LGBTQ+ affirming care on Healthgrades?
Finding a Bariatric Surgery Specialist in Winston Salem, NC who affirms your identity is an essential part of a successful healthcare partnership. For people who identify as LGBTQ+, you can filter your Healthgrades search results to physicians who designate themselves as LGBTQ+ affirming.
Go to “All Filters” in your search results, then scroll down and select “LGBTQ+ affirming.”
Is it possible to filter Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC based on their age on Healthgrades?
Is it possible to filter Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC based on their age on Healthgrades?
Some people feel more comfortable seeing a Bariatric Surgery Specialist in a specific age range. You can filter your Healthgrades search results by going to “All Filters,” and then scrolling down to “Healthcare Professional’s Age.” From here, you can select age ranges from under 40, 41-50, 51-60, 61-70, or over 70 years old.
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC stay connected with their patients between appointments?
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC stay connected with their patients between appointments?
A Bariatric Surgery Specialist's office in Winston Salem, NC may offer a variety of resources for patients who need care or medical advice between appointments. These may include an answering service, nurse or physician assistant helpline, or text support through a patient portal.
When scheduling your appointment, or during your visit, ask your Bariatric Surgery Specialist's office about available care options between scheduled appointments.
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC approach patient education and empowerment during appointments?
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC approach patient education and empowerment during appointments?
Each Bariatric Surgery Specialist has their approach to educating and empowering patients. As a patient, you should feel comfortable asking questions and have confidence in your understanding of the answers. A strong partnership with your Bariatric Surgery Specialist helps you work together to find a treatment plan that's right for you, which improves the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Patient ratings and reviews can be particularly helpful in learning about a doctor's communication style. By reading about other people's experiences with a Bariatric Surgery Specialist, you can get a sense of how that specialist approaches patient education and empowerment to decide if they're a fit for you.
Can I request electronic prescriptions or medication refills from Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC for convenience?
Can I request electronic prescriptions or medication refills from Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC for convenience?
Many medical practices provide electronic prescriptions or medication refills as a quick, convenient way for you to receive your medications. Ask your doctor's office about whether they provide electronic prescriptions or refills, and check with your health insurance provider about prescription services they may offer.
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC facilitate seamless transitions of care for patients transitioning between healthcare settings?
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC facilitate seamless transitions of care for patients transitioning between healthcare settings?
If you need to change healthcare settings, such as being discharged from the hospital to a rehabilitation center or transitioning to home care, your team of healthcare professionals will work together to ensure continuity of care. They will communicate your medical records, history, and any other important information to the next care team so everyone can be equipped to provide high-quality care.
It is also important that you understand and feel confident about each step of your care. Don't hesitate to ask questions, and offer honest communication with your healthcare professionals so they can tailor your treatment to your needs.
Can I access remote monitoring or telehealth services provided by Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC for ongoing care management?
Can I access remote monitoring or telehealth services provided by Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC for ongoing care management?
Your Bariatric Surgery Specialist may recommend that you use new technologies called Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) to monitor your condition or symptoms between appointments. This may include tracking factors such as your weight, heart rate, blood oxygen level, blood pressure, temperature, or glucose levels. RPM devices can provide real-time updates to your physician or care team so they can keep track of trends or determine if you need more immediate care.
During your appointment, ask your Bariatric Surgery Specialist about the potential use of RPM and the possible benefits for your individual treatment plan.
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC address patient feedback and quality improvement initiatives to enhance their practice?
How do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC address patient feedback and quality improvement initiatives to enhance their practice?
Patient feedback is an important and helpful factor for Bariatric Surgery Specialists as they work to improve and maintain the quality of their practice. Ratings and comments from patients can provide guidance for office staff, process efficiencies, and physician communication. Healthgrades also publishes hospital quality data and awards the top facilities in the nation as America's Best Hospitals. These data-driven reports help specialists choose affiliations with high-quality hospitals that offer a higher rate of successful outcomes.
What role do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC play in addressing public health challenges and epidemics affecting the local community?
What role do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC play in addressing public health challenges and epidemics affecting the local community?
As physicians offering first-hand care to patients, Bariatric Surgery Specialists have a unique perspective and influence on public health. Routine screenings for diseases or conditions can help prevent more complicated care down the line, reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infection for patients. By counseling patients on preventive lifestyle habits, such as routine exercise and nutrition, doctors can lower the risk of chronic conditions in the population and ease the demand for critical care. Local physicians may also participate in community health programs or offer volunteer care, which helps increase access to healthcare for those who may not otherwise receive it. Through these types of initiatives and others like them, specialists can contribute to their community's overall public health.
What support resources are available for caregivers of patients receiving care from Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC?
What support resources are available for caregivers of patients receiving care from Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC?
Acting as a caregiver for a loved one can be a stressful and often emotional role. Caregiver burnout is common, and the challenges of caring for someone with a serious condition may be overwhelming. Fortunately, help is available.
Your Bariatric Surgery Specialist's office in Winston Salem, NC may be able to provide information about local support groups for caregivers, or there are several online communities you can access. Local respite services can provide quality, short-term care for your loved one and allow you to take needed time for yourself.
Caregivers of veterans enrolled in the Veterans Affairs health system can receive support through the VA, including legal and financial planning services. If your loved one has a disability and already receives Medicaid, your City may allow you to become a paid caregiver. Contact your state's Medicaid office for more information.
What measures do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC take to address patients' financial concerns or facilitate access to affordable healthcare services?
What measures do Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC take to address patients' financial concerns or facilitate access to affordable healthcare services?
Your Bariatric Surgery Specialist's office can provide information about financial assistance, which may be referred to as charity care. Some doctor's offices also offer payment plans that allow you to pay your bill over a certain period of time.
If you need to receive care at a hospital, you may qualify for financial assistance through that hospital. If you receive care at a non-profit hospital, you must be offered financial assistance if you cannot afford to pay. If you participate in a government program, such as Medicaid or Medicare, those programs' websites can offer guidance about coverage for the care you need.
Your hospital may also have a patient advocate on staff who can help guide you through your coverage or your financial assistance options. You can also find your own guide through the Patient Advocate Foundation.
How can patients effectively advocate for themselves during appointments with Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC?
How can patients effectively advocate for themselves during appointments with Bariatric Surgery Specialists in Winston Salem, NC?
It is important to remember that you are a partner with your Bariatric Surgery Specialist as you find the right treatment plan for you. You have a voice in your healthcare decisions, and it is important to communicate your goals and preferences clearly to get the highest quality of care.
Ways to advocate for yourself during appointments include: preparing questions in advance to ask your doctor, bringing someone with you to listen and take notes, asking your Bariatric Surgery Specialist to clarify when you do not understand something, and being honest when you have concerns.
If you are unsure about a recommended treatment, tell your doctor you want to seek a second opinion. A quality Bariatric Surgery Specialist will not take offense at this; rather, a good doctor wants to get as much information as possible to make the right treatment choice. If your Bariatric Surgery Specialist does question your interest in a second opinion, it may be a sign that another Bariatric Surgery Specialist may be a better fit for you.