Bariatric surgeries include adjustable gastric banding, gastric bypass, vertical sleeve gastrectomy and duodenal switch. Doctors generally recommend these operations for patients who need to lose at least 100 pounds. Social workers sometimes provide support and assistance for bariatric surgery patients, offering counseling sessions, facilitating support groups and more. Patients interested in meeting with a social worker can ask their bariatric surgeon for a referral.
Employment
Some bariatric surgeons hire social workers to conduct preoperative psychological evaluations, arrange support-group meetings and provide postoperative counseling. In addition, most hospitals employ social workers, who may perform similar duties. Social workers in private practice also assist bariatric surgery patients.
Preoperative Psychological Evaluation
Many insurance companies require patients to undergo a psychological evaluation before agreeing to pay for bariatric surgery. Some bariatric surgeons will not perform the procedure unless such an evaluation is conducted, regardless of what the patient's insurance company says.
Often performed by licensed social workers, psychological evaluations help ensure that patients exhibit realistic expectations, have adequate support systems in place and will likely comply with postoperative dietary and vitamin supplementation requirements.
Postoperative Counseling
Some bariatric surgery patients benefit from ongoing counseling after surgery. While people vary in their needs and motivations, many morbidly obese patients use food as a way to deal with emotions. For instance, they may eat when they feel lonely, bored or sad. After surgery, social workers can help patients find healthier coping mechanisms and make necessary lifestyle changes.
Support Groups
Many bariatric surgeons offer patient support groups, which the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery requires of any practice designated as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence. Support groups may be facilitated by social workers, as well as by registered dietitians, nurses or other health care professionals.
Post-Surgical Complications
Bariatric surgery carries a number of risks, and some patients suffer serious complications. These individuals may benefit more than others from postoperative counseling. If patients leave the hospital needing home health care or other special assistance, hospital social workers will help them make the necessary arrangements.
