UTMB Health opened in 1891 as the nation’s first public medical school and hospital under unified leadership. What began as one hospital and medical school building in Galveston is now a major academic health sciences center of global influence; a world-renowned research enterprise; and a growing, comprehensive health system with hospitals on four campuses and a network of clinics.  

Through their partnership with Accarent Health, members now have access to the UTMB Galveston Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, as approved by the American College of Surgeons. This designation means that patients seeking surgical treatment for obesity and its related conditions have a high-quality choice for receiving care at a nationally accredited program that meets the highest standards for patient safety and quality.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates over 90 million adults in the United States are affected by obesity. Common comorbidities, such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, increase mortality rates for those with obesity. 

Metabolic and bariatric surgery has proven to be the most effective treatment in the reduction of comorbid conditions related to obesity. Working together, the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery have developed accreditation standards for metabolic and bariatric surgery to assist patients with obesity in identifying centers that provide optimal patient care. 

UTMB Health offers pre-operative and post-operative care designed specifically for patients with obesity. They understand that weight loss is a personal journey that requires cohesive support. UTMB Health offers a full spectrum of healthcare support at every stage of the weight loss journey, from changing nutritional needs to mental health guidance, and even has a bariatric surgery support group where patients can share bariatric-friendly recipes, tips for success, and personal experiences.