Welcome

Welcome to the Bariatric Surgery Program at the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System. We are excited to work with you on taking your first steps toward creating a healthy and rewarding lifestyle.

Our Bariatric Center of Excellence has surgeons who offer a range of different surgical options. In addition, an advanced practice nurse, nurse practitioner, registered dietitian, insurance coordinator, psychologist and customer service representative are dedicated exclusively to care of bariatric surgery patients. We also offer monthly support group meetings—in English and Spanish—as well as online support.

This website is intended to provide an overview of our program and answer commonly asked questions that prospective patients may have regarding bariatric surgery. Our multidisciplinary staff will work closely with you throughout your weight-loss journey and educate you on surgical procedures, nutrition, physical activity, and behavior modification.

Our surgeons are trained in minimally invasive robotic surgery, which has multiple benefits to you as the patient. This state of the art technology can lead to less time off work, smaller incisions, and less pain. We realize that bariatric surgery is a monumental step for patients and our entire staff is here to guide you every step of the way.

We accept many insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance. Our insurance coordinator can work with you regarding benefit coverage questions or concerns. During the first clinic visit, you should expect appointments with both a surgeon and dietician and as well as a history and physical examination. You are required to under go a psychological evaluation. If you are deemed a suitable candidate, an insurance letter of medical necessity will be generated at that time. This letter is sent to your insurance company as a requirement for coverage.

Thank you for taking the time to view our online information session and bariatric program. We hope that you find it educational and look forward to helping you achieve all of your goals.