Dignity Health | hello Healthy | Spring 2018

A Recognized for excellence The Surgical Weight Loss Program at Mercy Hospitals has been recognized for its dedication to safe, high- quality care. It recently earned accreditation through the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program. We hope you enjoy this issue of HelloHealthy . Comments about the publication can be directed to the Marketing and Communications Department: DIGNITY HEALTH – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals P.O. Box 119, Bakersfield, CA 93302 | 661.327.4647, ext. 4434 HelloHealthy is published by Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals to provide general health information. It is not intended to provide personal medical advice, which should be obtained directly from a health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2018 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Marketing and Communications Department Robin Mangarin-Scott—Vice President, Strategic Marketing and Communications–Central California Michelle Willow—Director of External Communications–Central California Cody Brutlag—Marketing Manager–Central California Jessica Neeley—Communications Specialist–Central California Fabiana Rienzo—Communications Specialist–Central California Michelle Oliver—Marketing Manager–Central California Weight-loss surgery can be a life- changing option for people who haven’t been able to achieve lasting weight loss through diet and exercise alone. At Mercy Hospitals’ Surgical Weight Loss Program, we offer three highly successful surgery techniques: ●  ● Gastric banding. ●  ● Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. ●  ● Sleeve gastrectomy. What weight-loss surgery has to offer Q : What support services do you offer? Before you decide if surgery is right for you, you can attend a free seminar that helps explain your options and the lifestyle changes you may need to make. If you decide to move ahead, our doctors and staff members will be with you every step of the way with nutrition counseling and one-on-one support. And our support group can keep you connected with others who are on the journey to weight loss. Q : What results can I expect? On average, our participants shed between 60 and 85 percent of their excess weight in the first year after surgery. And most see their diabetes, blood pressure, or sleep apnea improve. People who’ve had weight-loss surgery may also find that: ●  ● Their joints hurt less. ●  ● It’s easier to move. ●  ● They’re able to be more active with loved ones. Am I a candidate? To learn more about the Mercy Hospitals’ Surgical Weight Loss Program or take the free online assessment, call 661.282.1325 or visit dignityhealth.org/ bakersfield/weightloss . Here are answers to some common questions about the program: Start your new life now