Phelps Hospital Expands Bariatric Services

Phelps Hospital announces the addition of bariatric services to their surgical expertise. Bariatric services offers weight-loss surgery and a comprehensive support program to assist morbidly obese individuals in improving their health.

Morbid obesity has been identified as an epidemic by numerous healthcare organizations and medical experts. People who are morbidly obese are more likely to have serious health problems such as diabetes and sleep apnea, and they are at higher risk for heart attacks, strokes and certain cancers. Morbidly obese people also have a decreased life expectancy.

Dr. Wayne Weiss, a board certified surgeon specializing in general surgery, surgical critical care and bariatric surgery, has been named as the Director of Bariatric Services at Phelps. He has performed thousands of bariatric surgeries over the last 15 years, including laparoscopic gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. “Extensive morbid obesity is a threat to the US and the world,” said Dr. Weiss. “The condition is responsible for disability, decreased productivity and quality of life, as well as increased healthcare costs.” People who are morbidly obese often present as orthopedic patients or as people seeking physical rehabilitation services, since joint problems are common.

In an effort to minimize a host of other medical problems that stem from morbid obesity, a multidisciplinary approach is key to providing excellent bariatric services. At Phelps Hospital the team of specialists will follow this approach, which is consistent with other bariatric centers of excellence. Team members partner with patients in a process that begins with an assessment to determine if weight-loss surgery is appropriate. Phelps Hospital has a strong orthopedic and physical rehabilitation unit where collaboration between all services can happen quickly in one place, lessening the burden for the patient to coordinate their care. Nutritional, pharmaceutical and psychological support services are also provided, and a patient navigator is available to assist patients with various appointments and insurance approval.

“I’m impressed with the Northwell organization and am excited to be at Phelps,” said Dr. Weiss. “The expansion of bariatric services in Sleepy Hollow is a great convenience for people living in Westchester, Rockland, and the Northern Bronx, who will now be able to access world-class weight loss surgery close to home.”

For more information about the expanded bariatric services, please call (914) 595-1439.