This is a non negotiable process that is a mandatory requirement of the WA Department of Health if you are seeking Bariatric Surgery as a public patient.
- Once your GP has started you on a Chronic Disease Management Plan for morbid obesity and associated illnesses, he or she will need to try and assist you to lose a significant amount of weight in those 12 months.
- Your GP may need to refer you to appropriate services such as dieticians and other allied health services. The Chronic Disease Management plan is necessary to access Medicare rebates for these services.
- The definition of 'significant weight loss' as part of this program is approximately 10% weight loss over the 12 month period.
- The supervised weight loss program is carried out WHILE WAITING for an appointment with Joondalup Bariatric Services to be assessed for surgery. Your GP will need to keep documentation of your progress during this 12 month period. This is very important as there will be no other verifiable record of your progress. When you are due to attend JBS for assessment, your GP will need to write an updated referral to JBS providing details of your progress.
- If you do not achieve significant weight loss it does not mean that you are ineligible for surgery. You will still be able to attend for assessment however and other factors will need to be considered during this process.
What your Dietitian can do for you
Your surgery will be a tool in helping you to lose weight but you will also need to make some behaviour and dietary changes and your Dietitian will be there to help you along the way.
It is important to see the Dietitian
regularly after your surgery to help you lose weight, while keeping you healthy. Five review appointments are recommended but you can see your Dietitian for more appointments if you need to.
Due to the busy nature of this clinic, you are strongly encouraged to book your first review appointment as soon as you are aware of your surgery date. lt is recommended to book D1, D2, and D3 as soon as you are aware of your surgery date.
Please note parking can be difficult so please allow adequate time to park and walk to the clinic. Appointments are scheduled for approximately 20 minutes. Please arrive on time or you will be required to re-schedule your appointment for a later date.
To book an appointment call 9400 9429.