Obesity treatment has entered an exciting era with two powerful options: GLP‑1 receptor agonist medications (such as semaglutide and tirzepatide) and bariatric surgery (including sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass). But while clinical trials often promise dramatic results, how do these approaches perform in day‑to‑day medical practice? Two recent studies—one reported by Reuters at the American…
In recent years, weight loss injections like semaglutide have surged in popularity. These medications promise significant weight loss without the need for surgery, making them a tempting option for individuals struggling with obesity. However, as with any quick fix, there are important factors to consider—side effects, long-term efficacy, and a looming shift in insurance coverage….
Jakob Emerson Original story: The ‘old – fashioned’ weight loss method being embraced by insurers As insurers continue to face major financial pressures related to covering weight loss drugs, many are steering more patients toward bariatric surgery to achieve similar results. “Insurance companies are seeing that they’re getting more reliable outcomes and savings in the…
Presented by Emma Patterson of Oregon Weight Loss Surgery at the 2024 ASMBS Conference Emma J. Patterson, MD, FACS, FRCSC, FASMBS, a renowned expert in bariatric surgery, recently delivered an insightful lecture on “Sleeves in ASC: How I Do It and Clinical Protocols” at the 40th Annual ASMBS Conference in San Diego. The presentation provided…
Rylee Wilson – Wednesday, June 12th, 2024 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will no longer cover GLP-1 drugs to treat obesity beginning in January, Bloomberg reported June 12. A spokesperson for Michigan’s largest insurer told the news outlet it will drop coverage of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss in fully insured, large group commercial…
In the ever-evolving landscape of obesity management, patients and healthcare professionals alike are presented with an array of choices. One notable trend in recent years has been the comparison between weight loss surgery, medications, and the use of less invasive endoscopic therapy such as intragastric balloons. In this blog, we’ll delve into the effectiveness of…
Exploring Semaglutide: A Non-Surgical Path to Weight Loss In a world where obesity and its associated health risks are on the rise, finding effective and sustainable methods for weight loss has become a paramount concern. One intriguing solution that has garnered significant attention is the use of semaglutide. This medication, along with weight loss surgery,…
— Fewer complications and lower likelihood of adverse postoperative outcomes with women surgeons by Rachael Robertson, Enterprise & Investigative Writer, MedPage Today August 31, 2023 Patients treated by women surgeons had better outcomes, according to two population-based cohort studies from Canada and Sweden, both of which were published in JAMA Surgery. The retrospective Canadian studyopens…
Understanding the Safety of Bariatric Surgery: Debunking Misconceptions about Bowel Obstructions Bariatric surgery, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, has gained significant popularity as an effective treatment for obesity and associated health conditions. While these procedures are generally considered safe and successful, it is important to address misconceptions surrounding potential complications. Recently, the tragic passing…
Over the years, the popularity of bariatric surgery has soared as a viable solution for those who are struggling with obesity and its associated health issues, aiming to achieve long-term weight loss. The NIH and ASMBS guidelines surrounding bariatric surgery have been established for several decades, aiming to maximize positive outcomes for patients. However, recent…