Severe Obesity (BMI>40) is a dangerous and defiant disease associated with an increased prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and multiple comorbid conditions. Behavior modification and pharmacologic methods alone have not been effective in achieving long-term weight loss in these patients. However, surgical interventions have been shown to achieve long-term weight loss and improve or resolve attendant comorbidities.

Case Managers are integral in guiding severely obese patients through each stage of the pre- and post-operative continuum of care to achieve a positive surgical outcome. They are instrumental in ensuring that the patient’s medical/surgical journey is collaborative, cohesive and cost-efficient. This case-based symposium offers Case Managers insight into the guidelines, resources and best practices necessary to optimize bariatric surgical outcomes and positively impact the overall care of these patients.  

1. Outline the spectrum of severe obesity as well as the impact of severe obesity on diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other disease states.
    
2. Present current and emerging clinical data addressing the use of available surgical intervention strategies that reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with severe obesity.
    
3. Reinforce the collaborative effort among Case Managers, Bariatric Surgeons, Bariatric Specialists, and other healthcare professionals to maximize patient outcomes across this important patient population.
    
4. Describe the economic impact of bariatric surgery on patients and the health care environment and the role that Case Managers play in this equation.
    
5. Illustrate a treatment plan, developed and implemented by Case Managers, integrating evidence-based surgical intervention strategies to optimize patient outcomes and facilitate durable weight loss.