Avita Galion Hospital recently shared the news that it has recently marked a significant milestone in healthcare excellence by achieving accreditation from the prestigious Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP®). This recognition, a joint Quality Program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, places Galion Hospital alongside Ontario Hospital, enhancing the regional medical landscape.
A Commitment to Comprehensive Bariatric Care
The accreditation of Avita Galion Hospital symbolizes a deep-rooted commitment to the care and well-being of bariatric patients in the area. Dr. Thomas Smith, a leading figure at Avita, has emphasized the hospital’s dedication to surpassing patient expectations from their initial consultation, through surgery, and along their weight-loss journey. The hospital’s investment in state-of-the-art technology, coupled with a compassionate approach, positions Avita as a frontrunner in bariatric care.
MBSAQIP Standards ensure that metabolic and bariatric patients receive multidisciplinary medical care, which is pivotal in improving patient outcomes and ensuring long-term success. Avita’s rigorous pursuit of this accreditation involved a comprehensive site evaluation by a seasoned bariatric surgeon who assessed the center’s structure, processes, and clinical outcomes data.
Building a Healthier Community
Under the leadership of Jerry Morasko, President/CEO of Avita Health System, the hospital’s journey began six years ago, driven by the growing concern over obesity in Crawford and Richland counties. The program’s evolution, including the acquisition of the da Vinci Xi robotic system in 2021 for robotic-assisted weight-loss surgery, demonstrates Avita’s ongoing commitment to innovative healthcare solutions. This milestone was further cemented when Ontario Hospital, part of Avita’s network, also achieved MBSAQIP accreditation.
Transformative Outcomes: The 100lb Club
Dr. Smith, a distinguished surgeon with over 1,000 weight loss surgeries to his name, is celebrated for his expertise in robotic-assisted surgical techniques. These advanced methods have been instrumental in reducing pain, scarring, and recovery times for patients. A notable success story is the “100lb Club,” which honors patients like Anna M., who have lost over 100 pounds post-surgery. Anna’s transformation, from a pre-diabetic condition with hypertension and joint pain to a healthier state, is a testament to the life-altering impact of Avita’s bariatric program.
Looking Forward
With the addition of Bariatric Surgeon Justin Eagleston, MD, to the team, Avita Galion Hospital is poised to enhance its bariatric care offerings. The hospital’s integration into a national data registry allows for continual analysis and improvement of its surgical outcomes, ensuring that the highest standards of patient care are maintained.
Source: Avita Health System; Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
