Published in:
01-05-2007
Establishing a laparoscopic bariatric program in a safety net hospital
Published in: Surgical Endoscopy | Issue 5/2007
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Background
Most laparoscopic bariatric programs are situated in a community- or university-based hospital. The authors have recently initiated a program at a safety net hospital. This investigation hypothesizes that a laparoscopic bariatric program can be established at a safety net hospital with good clinical and financial results.
Methods
A laparoscopic bariatric program was initiated December 2002 at a safety net hospital. The program included a dedicated operative suite, an operative team, a bariatric unit, and a clinical pathway. The data for all the patients who underwent laparoscopic gastric bypasses up to June 2003 were analyzed. The patients were analyzed by type of insurance: government-sponsored insurance (G) or commercial insurance (C).
Results
There were 104 patients during this period. Their mean age was 40 years (range, 18–63 years), and their mean body mass index was 48 (range, 38–62). The median length of hospital stay was 2 days (mean, 3.9 days). Hypertension and diabetes were resolved for more than 80% of the patients. The average percentage of excess body weight loss was 73% after 1 year. There were no significant clinical differences between payor groups. The payor mix was 31% G and 69% C. The mean collection rates for hospital charges were 10% for G versus 53% for C (p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
A laparoscopic bariatric program can be established in a safety net hospital with good clinical results. Findings showed that 1-year weight loss and comorbidity improvement/resolution compares favorably with those of other programs. Despite the overall poor payor mix of many safety net hospitals, a bariatric program can be established and can attract a high rate of commercially insured patients.