Non-Surgical Treatment
The SSM Weight-Loss Institute is dedicated to helping you achieve the long-term weight-loss results you deserve. To reach this goal, our process for non-surgical treatment includes:
- Orientation – The SSM Weight-Loss Institute provides free informational orientations so you can learn about all of the diet options available before making any commitment.
- Clinical Evaluation – Before starting the HMR® (Health Management Resources) program, patients will meet with the nurse for a full clinical evaluation which can include lab work, EKG, medication review and a health history review.
- Physical Evaluation – Any patient who is medically managed by the HMR Program will meet with the HMR physician for a complete physical evaluation.
- Educational Classes – All patients who participate in the HMR in-clinic program attend weekly educational classes. Patients continue in these classes until their individual goal weight is reached.
- Maintenance – HMR includes a comprehensive maintenance program that all patients are encouraged to join. This resource helps to support continued weight maintenance once regular foods are incorporated back into the diet.
To get started click here to register for an orientation.
Surgical
The SSM Weight-Loss Institute provides ongoing support throughout the entire weight-loss surgery process. We’re beside you all the way and you will know what to expect before, during, and following your surgery. You will always have access to a weight-loss professional who can answer any questions and concerns you may have. However, there are a few key steps that should be done before surgical treatment can be provided:
- Contact your insurance company to verify your coverage. The following codes may be requested by your insurance company:
- 43644 - Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
- 43770 - Gastric banding
- 43775 - Sleeve Gastrectomy
- Download the required forms packet, provide ALL requested information and attend a seminar. The completed packet can be returned to SSM Weight Loss Institute in the following ways:
- faxed to 314-344-6699
- mailed to SSM Weight Loss Institute, 12266 DePaul Drive,
Suite 310, St. Louis MO 63044
-
brought to a seminar
If you would like to start the process, prior to attending a seminar, complete the required forms packet and fax or mail to the office
upon completion.
Note: To speed up the process, please make sure that ALL information requested is completely answered. We cannot proceed with the process if requested information is missing.
- SSM Weight-Loss Institute staff reviews your packet and checks it for any missing information. If any information is missing, then you will be contacted and asked to provide the missing information. Once your packet is complete, the surgical nurse will notify you that we have the required paperwork and we will request a pre-authorization letter from your insurance company.
- Once we receive pre-authorization from your insurance company, a nurse will call and schedule you for a pre-operative class. Your surgery date will be set at that pre-operative class. If insurance denies authorization of this surgery, then the nurse will contact you and share the reason for denial. You do have the right to appeal this denial with your insurance provider; however, the appeal is your responsibility.
Once you are authorized, our process for surgical treatment includes:
- Evaluation – In order to be accepted for a surgical weight-loss procedure, a complete physical and emotional assessment will be conducted. You also will meet with an SSM Weight-Loss Institute bariatric surgeon to ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for surgery.
- Clinical Coordinator – A bariatric-trained registered nurse will provide guidance, answer questions, and serve as a continuous resource throughout your entire experience.
- Consultation – Before your surgery, our bariatric-trained dietician will explain how your dietary requirements will change. Your surgeon will also discuss risk factors and post-operative expectations with you.
- Surgery – The SSM Weight-Loss Institute’s nationally recognized bariatric surgeons perform a minimally invasive procedure that takes 60-90 minutes. Patients usually return home after a two-to-three day stay in a private room at SSM DePaul Health Center. You will receive the highest level of post-surgical care by a specially trained staff.
- Rehabilitation – As you begin to lose weight, your mobility will be enhanced. The physical therapists at SSM Rehab will help you improve muscle tone as you increase your daily activity level.
- Support – Following surgery, you will be invited to attend bi-monthly meetings with a facilitator to discuss lifestyle adjustments and concerns. You will also have the opportunity to share your experiences with others who have had the same surgery. Support group sessions include practical suggestions for continued success by colleagues who have been in your situation and understand your weight-loss goals.
To get started click here to download required packet and then click here to register for a seminar.