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Bariatric Services to Start at UPMC Bedford Memorial

ALTOONA, July 20, 2015 — Bedford County area residents will be able to obtain information about surgical techniques that promote weight loss (bariatric surgery) at UPMC Bedford Memorial beginning in August.
 
“UPMC Altoona Surgical Associates recognized that a high number of bariatric patients were going to Altoona for treatment. The surgeons approached us and we are very happy to provide the office where they will see patients once a month,” says Paula Thomas, D.N.P., M.S.N., R.N., vice president of patient care services, chief nursing officer. “It really makes obtaining this service easier for our patients.”
 
The first Bariatric Information Session will be offered by UPMC Altoona Surgical Associates from 5 to 6 p.m. on Aug. 4 at the Vreeland Conference Room, UPMC Bedford Memorial. Pre-registration required.
 
The information session is presented by bariatric surgeon Scot Currie, D.O., and Benny O’Connor, R.N., bariatric coordinator. Call 814-889-7500 for a reservation and more information.

“We see a community need and we are able to meet it,” says Dr. Currie. “If the demand is sufficient, we will add days in Bedford to take care of patients.”
 
Bedford area residents will receive pre-surgery and post-surgery care at UPMC Bedford Memorial, and bariatric surgery will be performed at UPMC Altoona, which is accredited as a Comprehensive Center for Bariatric Surgery. 
 
The American College of Surgeons Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery states that UPMC Altoona demonstrates that it meets the needs of patients by providing multidisciplinary, high quality, patient-centered care. The accreditation status formally acknowledges UPMC Altoona’s commitment to providing and supporting quality improvement and safety for the metabolic and bariatric surgery patient.
 

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