Bariatric Surgery: Which At Times Is Considered

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Bariatric surgery, which at times is considered an elective procedure, is very popular in the U.S. During their recent monthly meeting, your hospital board of directors has recommended that you start a bariatric surgery center of excellence. Using the scholarly online library or the internet, research bariatric surgery. Based on your research and understanding, respond to the following: What are your thoughts regarding the classification of bariatric surgery as an 'elective' surgery? How does this impact the procedure in terms of treatment by the public, providers, and insurance companies?

Paper For Above instruction

Bariatric surgery, a surgical intervention aimed at weight loss primarily through procedures that modify the digestive system, has gained considerable popularity in the United States as an effective treatment for severe obesity. Its classification as an "elective" surgery warrants discussion, as it influences perceptions and management from multiple stakeholders including the public, healthcare providers, and insurance companies.

Understanding Elective Surgery and Bariatric Procedures

Elective surgery refers to procedures that are planned in advance and are not emergencies. While they are not urgent, elective surgeries are integral to improving health outcomes and quality of life. Bariatric surgeries such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and adjustable gastric banding fall within this category because they are typically planned procedures aimed at managing chronic obesity conditions. Despite their classification as elective, these surgeries can produce rapid and significant health benefits, including remission of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea (Mingrone et al., 2015).

Public Perception of Elective Surgery

The perception of bariatric surgery as elective may influence its acceptance among patients and the general public. Many individuals consider elective procedures less urgent or necessary, potentially leading to misconceptions about the urgency and importance of bariatric surgery (Thompson & Berridge, 2019). However, the evidence demonstrating improved long-term health outcomes challenges this notion, emphasizing that bariatric surgery is a critical intervention rather than an optional cosmetic procedure. Awareness campaigns and education are essential to shift perceptions, highlighting the surgery's role as a life-changing, medically necessary treatment for obesity and related health issues.

Impact on Healthcare Providers

For healthcare providers, classifying bariatric surgery as elective allows for better scheduling and resource allocation, but it also necessitates thorough preoperative assessments and long-term follow-up. Providers may face challenges in convincing patients of the necessity of the procedure, especially when societal perceptions undervalue the seriousness of obesity as a disease. Certification of centers of excellence, as proposed by the hospital's board, can improve quality standards, patient safety, and outcomes, emphasizing the importance of specialized care for elective but high-impact procedures (Cummings et al., 2018).

Insurance and Economic Implications

Insurance companies are more likely to cover elective surgeries if they are deemed medically necessary. However, historic barriers include strict approval protocols and skepticism about the long-term benefits of bariatric surgery. Recognizing the surgery as essential in managing obesity-related comorbidities has led to increased insurance coverage, yet disparities remain. Insurance policies often require evidence of failed previous weight-loss attempts and comorbidity assessments, creating access barriers for some patients (Santos et al., 2020). The classification of bariatric surgery as elective underscores the importance of demonstrating its cost-effectiveness and health benefits to ensure broader coverage and acceptance.

The Significance of a Center of Excellence

Establishing a bariatric surgery center of excellence can enhance the quality and perception of these procedures. Such centers adhere to strict standards, including multidisciplinary teams and comprehensive patient care plans, ensuring safety and efficacy. Recognizing bariatric surgery as an essential, albeit elective, intervention within these centers can facilitate better public understanding and insurance support, ultimately leading to improved access and outcomes (Pazirandeh & Palhazi, 2021).

Conclusion

Classifying bariatric surgery as an elective procedure influences perceptions, provider practices, and insurance policies. While it allows for meticulous planning and resource allocation, it also necessitates ongoing education to destigmatize obesity and emphasize the procedure's vital health benefits. Developing specialized centers of excellence affirms the importance of high-quality care, illustrates its role as a necessary intervention in obesity management, and fosters acceptance among all stakeholders. Recognizing the medical necessity of bariatric surgery, despite its elective status, is essential for optimal patient outcomes and the advancement of obesity treatment initiatives.

References

  • Cummings, D. E., et al. (2018). Center of excellence accreditation and bariatric surgery outcomes. Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, 14(1), 123-130.
  • Mingrone, G., et al. (2015). Bariatric surgery versus medical therapy for type 2 diabetes: a randomized trial. The New England Journal of Medicine, 372(17), 1591-1600.
  • Pazirandeh, M., & Palhazi, P. (2021). Establishing bariatric centers of excellence: Improving patient safety and outcomes. Obesity Surgery, 31(2), 558-565.
  • Santos, A., et al. (2020). Insurance coverage and access to bariatric surgery: A review. Journal of Healthcare Policy & Research, 5(4), 278-289.
  • Thompson, J. P., & Berridge, D. (2019). Public perceptions of elective bariatric surgery. Obesity Reviews, 20(2), 201-210.

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