When you come in at New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville for a consult, one of the first few people you will speak with is Erica Geary, our Patient Advocate.
Erica has an important role to play in helping patients start the bariatric process. She will guide you along the pathway to surgery so you will go through it with more ease.
Let’s get to know her more in this interview:
As a patient advocate, what do you do?
“I help the patients walk through the process of bariatric surgery. I first encourage them to attend our FREE info session, which will give them more information on what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
The patients can attend this in-person or online. We normally do the in-person seminar once a month but if patients can’t make it in-person, the online version is a great option.”
The free bariatric seminar offered by New Life Bariatric is very important as it equips one with information about the surgery. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery can help in easing some of the fears you have about the surgery.
You can register to view or attend New Life’s FREE info series here.
What are the steps as a new patient at New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery?
“Initially, I will be endorsing the bariatric seminar. After they completed the seminar, I will email and call them back.
We have other staff who will help them with your insurance and the requirements we need from them. And we go from there.”
What’s your advice for patients who are considering bariatric surgery?
“It’s normal to feel nervous. We have a support group who can help you address your concerns. Our in-person support group meets twice a month.
We also have a Facebook support group that you can check into. It’s a convenient option, especially during today’s pandemic. And, of course, our staff is always here to answer questions.
At New Life, we have an amazing team who really wants the best for you. Dr. Williams is amazing and he makes sure that all our patients are well-taken care of.”
If you have a question about the weight loss surgery process or would like to request an appointment with New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville, call us at (865) 694-9676.
New Life Center for Bariatric Surgery is part of Premier Surgical Bariatrics in Knoxville, Tennessee. New Life is affiliated with the Parkwest Center for Bariatric Surgery, part of Covenant Health Bariatric Services.