bariatric center opening soon

Bariatric Center offers surgical solution for weight loss

Ball Memorial Hospital is opening a new Bariatric Center to offer a surgical and medical option for individuals suffering from obesity.

In Indiana, 30 percent of the state’s population is considered obese, that means more than 1.8 million Hoosiers are living with obesity.

“This is a service we hope is very useful to the community,” said Mary Harrington, RN, coordinator, Bariatric Center. “It is not for everyone but for someone who is prepared to make the commitment, this could be for them.”

Harrington’s perspective is relevant due to the fact that she has been through the procedure herself and can offer individuals with questions about the surgery a first hand account.

“For someone who has tried every diet and has lost weight only to gain it right back the Bariatric surgery could be an option,” she said. “Its important that the patient receive the proper education prior to having the procedure done.”

A big part of the Bariatric Center will include education. A team of caregivers including the surgeons who perform the procedures, a nurse, a dietician as well as a Psychologist will all work with the patient to prepare them and educate them on their options and then what to expect.

“It’s a big commitment and lifestyle change,” Harrington said. “You can’t have the surgery and then go back to eating fast food every day. In order to improve their quality of life the patients have to learn to eat all over again after the surgery.”

While the Bariatric procedures will take place at Ball Hospital, The new Bariatric Center itself will be located a few blocks from BMH at 2901 W. Jackson St.. The education and some pre-operative screenings as well as the follow up care will take place at the Bariatric Center in an outpatient setting.

The Bariatric Center won’t officially open until next spring but several educational seminars are already being held in Ball Memorial Hospital’s Outpatient Medical Pavilion to inform potential patients of the options they have and what BMH offers.

For more information on The Bariatric Center at BMH or to attend one of the informational seminars, contact Harrington at (765) 747-4410.

Informational seminars for

The Bariatric Center in OMP 1:

6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 21
6-8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 20.