Piedmont Columbus Regional Northside has received a Comprehensive Bariatrics Center accreditation from the American College of Surgeons’ (ACS) Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP®).

“Our robotic-assisted surgery program is committed to quality care, which begins with experienced leadership like bariatric surgeon Dr. Kenneth Copperwheat and expertly trained staff,” Piedmont Columbus Regional Northside Chief Operating Officer Laura Drew shares. “The bariatrics program is tasked with review of surgical data as they continue improving the structure and outcomes necessary to provide safe, effective and high-quality care.”

After applying for MBSAQIP Accreditation, facilities undergo an extensive site visit to review the program’s structure, processes and clinical outcomes data. As an accredited hospital, Piedmont Columbus Regional Northside also becomes an ACS Surgical Quality Partner— meaning a focus is kept on continuous quality program improvement. The MBSAQIP standards ensure metabolic and bariatric patients receive multidisciplinary medical care, which improves outcomes and long-term success. MBSAQIP-Accredited facilities offer preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for patients with obesity.

“Metabolic bariatric surgeries are performed minimally-invasive with assistance from the da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System. The surgeon and clinical staff are in charge of the operation, but robotic assistance allows us to perform procedures with incredible precision and superior results,” metabolic bariatric surgeon Kenneth Copperwheat, D.O., explains. “This translates to shorter recovery periods and less patient pain overall.”

Visit Piedmont.org/pcBariatricsSeminar to take the first step on your weight-loss journey and watch a convenient online seminar about bariatric surgery. The seminar provides helpful information on obesity, weight loss management and surgery options. Upon completion of the video, Piedmont Physicians Surgical Specialists and Bariatrics office staff will contact you to schedule the first appointment.

“What sets us apart is that our program doesn’t just offer surgical intervention but also consists of patient education and clinical support coaching that provides a hassle-free experience,” bariatric program coordinator Angie Miller, RN, explains. “Patients enjoy encouragement via a bariatrics support group that connects patients with others who have also gone through this transformational journey.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates about 93 million adults in the United States are affected by obesity and that number continues to increase. Obesity increases risks of morbidity and mortality because of the diseases and conditions that are commonly associated with it, such as type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cancer, among other health risks. Metabolic and bariatric surgery has proven to be effective in the reduction of comorbid conditions related to obesity.