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The B.E.A.T. Program – Bariatric Education and Treatment Program.

Obesity is a complex, chronic, persistent, and resistant disease. The decision to have weight loss surgery is a difficult one and, for most people, it is the last resort after years of frustration with excessive weight gain and diet failures. Most people enter the process without a clear understanding of what lies ahead. After finding the right surgeon, there are a number of visits to medical specialists for surgical “clearance”. It may also be necessary to treat or stabilize some pre-existing medical or psychiatric problems before the surgery. Some surgeons require patients to lose at least ten pounds before the surgery or may even require smokers to quit first. The insurance companies also have their own criteria for approval. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to require a three or six month medically-supervised weight management program before approving the surgery. They also require specific documentation from a variety of sources. There are unexpected co-pays and other expenses that may not be reimbursed. All of this may take months, making people feel even more frustrated, overwhelmed, and alone.

Bariatric surgery is only a tool…..it is not a magic cure for obesity. It is a lifelong commitment to a new way of living that makes the surgery successful. This involves changing old habits and attitudes toward eating, physical activity and coping with stress. Going into such a life altering experience without adequate preparation and the proper perspective is like jumping out of an airplane without a parachute. This is where the B.E.A.T Program comes in. The B.E.A.T. Program is a comprehensive medically-supervised weight management program that works with people before, after and long after the surgery. The program provides surgical, nutritional, physical activity, and behavioral education, as well as, emotional support and guidance. It is specifically designed to address the unmet needs of people who are seeking, seriously considering, or have had bariatric (weight loss) surgery,

From the time you take that first step to seriously consider bariatric surgery as an options, The B.E.A.T. Program is there for you and will be with you for years after the surgery as you face new challenges. Our knowledgeable and experienced staff has made this journey with many people and we will be there before and after the surgery to help you. We will work with your surgeon and primary doctor to help coordinate your care and we will help you navigate the healthcare and insurance systems. The B.E.A.T. Program meets insurance company requirements for a medically-supervised weight management program. It is a tax deductible medical expense according to IRS. It may also be reimbursable by insurers or employers as a wellness program and/or from your health savings accounts or flexible spending accounts.

You should join The B.E.A.T. Program if you are looking for:

• A comprehensive program
• A knowledgeable and experienced staff
• Affordable fees
• All services provided in one location
• A flexible payment plan
• A bilingual staff (French and Spanish)
• A program that will be there for you before, after and long after the surgery
• An investment in your future