Abstract
Abstract
The safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in the management of obesity have been demonstrated in recent years. Bariatric surgical procedures have become less invasive and require less time in the hospital. Similarly, changes in payer rules increased the popularity of bariatric procedures among many overweight and obese patients for whom nonsurgical interventions have failed. However, the increased diversity of patients seeking bariatric surgery heightens concerns about informed consent and how much of the indications, risks, complications, and commitment to lifelong weight-loss management patients truly understand prior to making this life-changing decision. This article explores the relationships among informed consent, patient decision making, and healthcare literacy in the management of bariatric patients before, during, and after surgery. It discusses alternative strategies for providing information that facilitates informed consent and decision making and supports the patient throughout the weight-loss journey.
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