Horizon Health Staff Celebrate Nationally Recognized Bariatrics Program

Horizon Health staff recently celebrated the bariatric surgery team for earning national recognition for exceptional patient safety and quality of care.

The accreditation process took nearly three years and required applicants to meet stringent guidelines established by the American College of Surgeons through its Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).

MBSAQIP-accredited bariatric programs are known as Comprehensive Centers of Excellence, meeting the highest standards for surgical expertise, patient support, and post-operative care.

“This is a testament to the impressive nature of this organization and the services we offer to our community,” said Jay Carmichael, Horizon Health President & CEO. “We’re doing innovative things and pushing the boundaries of what can be done in a rural community.”

Accreditation is more than a title. It translates into healthier patients, reversed diseases, and families with healthier futures, said Dr. Yaniv Cozacov, Chief of Surgery at Horizon Health.

“Our community deserves this,” he added. “When one hospital does better, it pushes everybody else to do better.”

Dr. Fouad Hachem, bariatric surgeon, emphasized the program’s multidisciplinary approach, which brings together the expertise of numerous clinical departments.

“It shows people that obesity is a disease – much like heart disease. We want to give patients an A+ surgery, and our records demonstrate that,” he said.

The Horizon Health Center for Weight Management is the first bariatric surgery program in the Wabash Valley and one of only seven accredited centers in downstate Illinois.

“This accreditation means we are providing patients with the very best care available,” said Jean McConkey, Bariatric Nurse Coordinator.

About the Program

Horizon Health offers all the common weight-loss surgery options using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, performed through small incisions. This approach typically results in less pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring, with most patients returning to work within one week. Lifelong support is available to guide patients through their weight loss journey.

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