Bariatric Surgery Pathway

Saskatchewan has implemented a Bariatric Surgical Program for individuals who struggle with obesity. Since 2009, bariatric surgery has been coordinated through the Regina Bariatric Surgery Assessment Clinic. The clinic provides a six-month program of assessment, education and support to about 260 people each year. Through guided counselling and nutritional and exercise support, candidates can choose to develop a program to move toward a healthy weight, with or without surgical intervention.

Bariatric surgery is performed on people struggling with obesity - generally those whose Body Mass Index (BMI) is between 40 and 60. Surgery modifies the gastrointestinal tract to decrease calorie consumption, helping patients lose weight and avoid serious complications of obesity.

To attend the program, patients must be assessed by a family doctor, who would then provide a referral to the Regina Bariatric Surgical Program if it's felt the patient would benefit from surgery.