Bariatric Surgery at Carle Foundation Hospital

Pathway to Surgery

Bariatric surgery is an important decision to make – and we’re here to help. We recommend taking the following steps when considering surgery:
 
Step 1. Ask your primary care doctor to submit a patient referral to Carle Bariatrics.

Step 2. Watch the three-part Bariatric Surgery Seminar Video Series linked below.
This short video series will provide you with details about weight-loss surgery and the Carle Bariatrics program. Our team explains the advantages and disadvantages of each type of weight loss procedure.

Click here to view and download a Spanish version of the Carle Bariatric Surgery seminar presentation.
 
Video #1 (5 mins.)

Video #2 (12 mins.)

Video #3 (5 mins.)

Step 3. Scheduling a consultation appointment.
If your primary care doctor has submitted a referral to Carle Bariatrics, you can proceed with calling (217) 902-2100 to schedule a consultation appointment with our appointment scheduler. We do not schedule consultation appointments without a provider referral. Please note the appointment scheduler will ask you for the video completion password prior to scheduling your appointment. This is to ensure that you have watched the video series and understand the risk factors associated with weight loss surgery prior to meeting with our team.

Step 4. Verify your insurance requirements.
Although a staff member will review and verify your insurance carrier’s requirements when you schedule your first appointment, it is important to know how your coverage works beforehand. Please contact your insurance carrier to determine if your weight-loss surgery will be covered. Our team will work with Carle Financial Services to help answer questions and provide guidance as you work with your carrier. Contact the Carle Bariatric Surgery department at (217) 902-2100 for additional questions.

Step 5. Join our Carle Bariatrics Facebook Support Group (optional).
This online support group provides an online community for individuals who are interested in or have completed the bariatric surgery process to come together with surgeons and medical professionals. This group enables patients to share stories, seek support, ask questions and gain knowledge in a low-pressure environment. For more information on the Bariatrics Facebook Support Group Page, click here. It is a great resource if you are considering Bariatric Surgery.