Horizon Health Nationally Recognized for Bariatric Surgery

The Horizon Health bariatric surgery program has received national recognition for meeting the highest standards for patient safety and quality of care.

Accreditation from the American College of Surgeons – through its Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) – shows Horizon Health’s commitment to the highest levels of weight loss care. Bariatric programs that were MBSAQIP accredited are known as Comprehensive Centers of Excellence.

Horizon Health is one of only a dozen Illinois bariatric health centers outside the Chicagoland area designated as an MBSAQIP Accredited Center.

“Congratulations to our entire bariatrics team, who have worked extremely hard to earn this recognition,” said Jay Carmichael, Horizon Health president & CEO. “Being an accredited center shows that we are meeting, and in many cases exceeding, the same quality and patient safety standards as large medical centers – and we are doing it right here at home.”

What It Means

Becoming an MBSAQIP Accredited Center indicates a medical facility's commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, and effective bariatric surgery care, recognized by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. This designation signifies a rigorous process of evaluation, demonstrating a facility's ability to meet specific standards for surgical expertise, patient support, and post-operative care:

• Patient Safety and Outcomes – Recognized for their low complication rates and surgical risks, demonstrating a commitment to delivering safe and effective bariatric surgery.
• Specialized Expertise – Patients interact with a dedicated team of surgeons, nurses, and support staff who are proven experts in weight loss surgery
• Comprehensive Care – The program provides comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, including dietary counseling, psychological support, physical therapy, and long-term follow-up to help patients achieve and maintain weight loss
• Accreditation and Recognition – The program adheres to rigorous standards and is recognized by insurance companies and health organizations
• Improved Patient Experience – The program prioritizes patient support, comfort, and education to ensure a positive and successful weight loss journey
• Cost-Effectiveness – Accredited Centers provide quality care at a lower cost compared to other programs.
• Enhanced Collaboration – Horizon Health fosters collaboration between healthcare professionals, including surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, and other specialists

“This certification is one way to ensure we maintain the highest standards and achieve the best possible health outcomes for individuals suffering from obesity,” said Dr. Yaniv Cozacov, Horizon Health chief of surgery and bariatric surgeon.

Patient-Centered Approach

Horizon Health offers all the common weight loss surgery options, using a minimally invasive technique called laparoscopic surgery, which is performed through very small incisions. This results in less pain, faster recovery, and less scarring, and patients usually return to work in one week.

“Our approach is very patient-centered,” explained Dr. Fouad Hachem, medical director of Horizon Health bariatric surgery. “The specific type of surgery someone receives depends on their specific needs and weight loss goals.”

The program utilizes an integrated approach that includes medication interventions, nutrition and lifestyle modification, mental health support, and exercise. Most importantly, it offers life-long support to guide patients through their weight loss journey.

Horizon Health began offering bariatric surgery in 2016. In addition to two bariatric surgeons, the program includes Jean McConkey, BSN, RN, program coordinator, registered dietitians, registered nurses, psychologist, insurance specialist, counselors, exercise physiologists, and other support staff.

To schedule a free consult with a bariatric surgeon, call 217-466-4868 or visit MyHorizonHealth.org/Bariatrics.