It is estimated that up to 17% of patients are lost to follow up in the first year alone following bariatric surgery. This number dramatically increases with each year following their surgery. Many times, patients cite lack of time as a reason for dropped attendance at follow up visits. Additionally, access to a comprehensive surgical-medical weight loss program is a barrier to continued care, and some patients simply don't realize the need and importance of follow up. Complications following bariatric surgery are significant; there is a 15-20% complication rate following the most common bariatric surgery procedures within the first month following the surgery.

Primary care providers can capture opportunities at routine and acute visits to monitor for health maintenance related to post bariatric care including labs that identify nutritional deficiencies, hematologic, metabolic and endocrine abnormalities. Additionally, weight, BMI and weight loss trajectory can be reviewed and addressed with both brief and extended intervention in nutritional and behavioral counseling. Most primary care providers cite lack of time and resources as primary reasons not to address what may seem as an extensive list of monitoring. This session will simplify and summarize both brief and extended intervention that can be fit into even an acute visit.

CME/CE Expiration Date: 5/25/24

*The expiration date listed above is the last day CME/CE credit can be claimed for this specific presentation.