Weight Loss Surgery Qualifications

Step 1: See if you qualify 

 Before you make an appointment, check these requirements:

• You’re more than 100 pounds overweight or have a BMI of 35 or higher.
• You may also need to have an obesity-related condition like diabetes, heart disease or sleep apnea.
• You're ready to make lifestyle changes — including quitting tobacco and following a nutrition plan.
• You’re committed to long-term follow-up care with our clinic.
• You’re physically able to walk at least 50 feet.

Step 2: Check your insurance

• Contact your insurance provider to see if bariatric surgery is covered under your plan.
• Our team can also help you understand your insurance benefits and options.
   

Step 3: Call us to get started

• Once you’ve reviewed the qualifications and verified your insurance coverage, give us a call: 859-562-1999
• We’ll walk you through the next steps and help you set up your first appointment.
   

Step 4: Group Education Class

As part of preparing for weight-loss surgery, you’ll attend a Group Education Class. This important step helps ensure you’re fully informed, supported and medically ready for surgery. During this visit, you’ll complete several key parts of your preoperative process:
 

Medical history & physical assessment

You’ll meet with one of our clinical providers for a review of your medical history and a basic physical exam. They’ll also provide you with a personalized checklist of any additional tests or clearances needed prior to surgery.

Nutrition assessment

One of our registered dietitians will meet with you to assess your current nutrition habits. They’ll also help you begin developing a plan that supports your health before and after surgery.

Lab testing

During this visit, you’ll get lab work done. Our Turfland location makes it easy – you can do your labs right on-site. 

What to expect 

Your first visit may take up to 2 hours, so please plan ahead. You’ll meet with the provider, dietitian, and nurse coordinator. You’ll also have lab work done during this time. Future visits will be much shorter. 

At each visit, we’ll use a special scale that shows your body composition—things like muscle, fat, and water. This helps our team create a care plan just for you, based on your unique nutrition needs.