There are some things I have learned in regards to my:
pre-gastric bypass; surgery and hospital stay; and post-surgery care in a nursing
facility. I would like to share my
insights:
1)
Pre-surgery:
If you are considering weight loss surgery, you need to check out the
various programs that are covered through your insurance company. Not all hospitals have the same weight loss
surgery programs. Investigate the
surgeons who perform the surgery, the hospital, the pre-weight loss program,
and if they provide post-surgery support.
Read everything you can concern the different weight loss
surgeries. The internet is a great
resource.
2)
Something else I should have done prior to
surgery: Knowing ahead of time that I
was going to go straight from the hospital to a nursing facility, I should have
investigated various facilities prior to my surgery. Just because a facility says it takes
bariatric patients does not mean they know how to provide sufficient care for
post-surgery gastric bypass patients.
A bariatric patient is just one who is of a certain weight that needs a
special bed and other items for proper care.
Do not assume the insurance company and hospital has researched these
facilities as well. I suggest that you
interview the facilities whether by phone or physically. When you find one that claims they can care
for post-gastric bypass patients, ask questions as to what they provide –
especially the diet/food you will need while in their care. If you find a facility, go visit the facility
personally so you are not shocked like I was when I arrived at the care
facility.
