Bariatric Surgical Program - Meet Our Team

The World Health Organization and the Canadian Medical Association recognizes obesity as a progressive, chronic disease. Like many chronic diseases, surgery can be the most effective treatment. The Saskatchewan Health Authority has been offering bariatric surgery to Saskatchewan residents since 2008.

This program is broad in nature and covers many parts of health improvement including:

• Mental health and wellness, 
• Physical activity, and
• Nutritional changes.  

We know that every patient journey is different and surgery itself is only a part of this program.  We work with our patients on an individual basis to help them meet their health goals and achieve success with bariatric surgery.

Our team

Our staff are here to help you along your journey.

Our team is made up of:

• surgeons;
• a registered nurse;
• a registered dietitian;
• a physical therapist;
• a registered social worker, and
• a behavioural therapist. 

Our staff is here to help you along your journey as we know that considering bariatric surgery for weight loss is an important decision. We will provide information about the surgery, what to expect in hospital, pre- and post-surgery nutrition, exercise recommendations, and support.

Our team will support you while you are in the Surgical Bariatric Program which includes focusing on your emotional, physical, nutritional, and educational needs.

Surgeon

Our surgeons are specially trained in bariatric surgery for obesity treatment and will guide you in the direction to the type of surgery which is right for you. They provide follow up care related to bariatric surgery while you are in the program.

Nurse 

The registered nurse is there to help educate patients and gain access to information to help guide optimal treatment strategies for the patient.

Dietitian

The registered dietitian’s role is to assess, monitor and guide you towards the nutritional changes you will need to make to prepare for surgery. The dietitian is also there to help you achieve optimal nutrition and successful weight loss both before and after surgery.

Social worker

The social worker's role is to complete an assessment of your emotional readiness for bariatric surgery and preparation for long-term success. It may be recommended that some patients work with the psychology team or community supports/resources for additional support.

Behavioural therapist

The behavioural therapist's role is to offer additional support to patients who may be experiencing mental health issues or concerns that require additional support.

Physical therapist

Physical activity is an important part of any weight loss program. The physical therapist is there to help guide patients toward small, safe, and achievable goals.