Typically, Body Mass Index (BMI) is the primary measure used to determine if one is eligible for bariatric surgery. As a non-emergency medical transportation service that specializes in bariatric transportation, we have seen firsthand how much this surgery can benefit someone’s life. Yet, it’s still never an easy decision to opt for surgery of any kind.

Patients who plan to undergo surgery should prepare themselves for the operation itself and the recovery journey that follows. Eligible candidates for bariatric surgery must be prepared to make a lifelong commitment to living a healthier lifestyle.

At Stellar Transportation, we provide comfortable, safe and secure bariatric transportation. No matter if you need to go in for a consultation, if it’s the day of your surgery, or if you’re going in for a post-op visit. We offer door-through-door transportation, using state-of-the-art stretchers to get you in and out of your home and into the vehicle safely and with utmost respect.

What Factors Determine if You’re Eligible for Bariatric Surgery?

As we mentioned above, the primary measure for determining eligibility is body mass index. BMI is calculated as a numerical value that reflects your weight in relation to your height. Eligible bariatric surgery candidates must have a BMI of 40 or higher.

In some cases, exceptions are made for candidates with a BMI ranging between 30 and 40. Eligibility improves if you have at least one serious medical condition. Age is not a primary determining factor for eligibility. In proof, there’s a wide range of ages that undergo bariatric surgery – most patients are between the ages of 18 to 65 years old.

Certain factors may make you ineligible, such as:

  • Severe psycho-emotional problems
  • Drug or alcohol dependency
  • Less than 1 year of sobriety
  • Smoking addiction

Eligible bariatric surgery candidates must:

  • Be willing to be drug and alcohol free
  • Quit smoking for at least 3 months before surgery and indefinitely post-op
  • Have healthy teeth
  • Show continual commitment to attend support meetings, doctor appointments, and so forth

What Additional Factors Can Determine If You’re Overweight?

Perhaps you meet all of the qualifications except for BMI… now what? If you can prove that your weight is causing serious health problems and extra strain on your heart, you may still be eligible for bariatric surgery.

Your doctor can check your blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, and other vital signs to determine if bariatric surgery is a beneficial option for you. In addition, waist-to-hip ratio and waist circumference are taken into consideration when determining if you’re eligible for this surgery.

How Many Doctor Visits Should You Expect Before and After Bariatric Surgery?

Undergoing bariatric surgery is a journey filled with numerous doctor appointments. Before surgery, patients usually have a sizable number of pre-op visits to attend. In addition, patients should expect multiple post-op appointments including monthly follow-ups for the first 12 months after surgery. The appointments generally continue even after the first 12 months. At minimum, patients should have annual lifetime follow up appointments.

Ensuring reliable transportation to and from all of these doctor appointments is an important part of eligibility. Even if you have a dedicated support system around you, finding rides to all of your appointments may still present challenges. That’s where we come in to help.

Stellar Transportation provides comfortable, clean, and safe transportation along with top-rated service. We come prepared with state-of-the-art stretchers, newer model vehicles, and a staff of helpful and experienced personnel. Safety is a top priority and we work hard to ensure patients receive the highest quality care possible.

Contact us today to get a free quote!