Hackensack Meridian JFK Medical Center Keeps Bariatrics Surgery Patients Connected During COVID-19 Pandemic

Hackensack Meridian JFK Medical Center has kept patients at its popular JFK for Life bariatric surgery support group connected during the Covid-19 pandemic. Through virtual seminars and appropriately distanced outdoor meetings, the support group has continued to provide insight, perspective and real-world experiences from and for those who have had weight-loss surgery.  By July, the group was meeting outside, minimizing risk with social distancing, masks and fresh air, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In April, we began holding the meetings two to three times a month virtually,” says Patricia Sullivan, RN, coordinator, Bariatrics Program. “We started with a few members and eventually more and more patients were able to utilize the technology to participate.”

The support group provides more than just social and emotional support. It offers an opportunity for learning followed by an open discussion. The group follows a structured agenda, featuring scheduled topic presentations and discussions on nutritional, medical, psychological, and social issues. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the group has focused on how to stay on track with their weight loss during these periods of quarantine and working from home.

"Daily schedules and habits have changed quite a bit since many people are spending more time at home because of the pandemic," said Amie Thornton, chief hospital executive, JFK Medical Center. “Being home more can interfere with progress for patients who are on a weight-loss journey.  Our virtual and outdoor options were developed to provide outlets where members can share their thoughts and challenges, as well as discuss ways to develop new strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this challenging time.”

In July, when New Jersey’s public gathering restrictions were eased, the group conducted its first in-person, socially distanced meeting in the JFK for Life office parking lot. It was a big success and the members were delighted to see one another again—even if it meant sitting six feet apart and wearing masks. Adapting to outdoor format with the new virtual gathering has been successful. Members now have two ways to share lifestyle solutions and help each other reach and sustain healthy weight—for life.

Patients at JFK for Life are incredibly involved in their care and extremely dedicated to the program. “Over the past year, two of our members moved out of the area—one to Florida and one to Washington state,” shared Sullivan. “Both were thrilled to be able to remain part of the group via the virtual platform.”

“The support group has been very important and helpful to me on my journey,” says JoAnn Tropiano, a 73-year-old group member who had bariatric surgery six years ago. “I have come to depend on the group for helpful tips and support.” Having moved to Washington state to be closer to her daughter, JoAnn tried to find another support group but was not successful. “Even though family is close, the COVID-19 shut down has been isolating. I feared that I would undo all the good that I had achieved.”

After receiving an email from Pat Sullivan that the support group was going to start up again virtually, JoAnn called right away to see if she could participate. “Even though I left the group geographically and the group was meeting virtually, I felt like I never left,” says JoAnn. “The group has saved my sanity. Reconnecting has helped me see that everyone is experiencing the same feelings and facing the challenges in different ways.”

The group plans to host another virtual meeting for any member that wishes to participate and will hold its second outdoor meeting this month.

About JFK for Life

Hackensack Meridian JFK Medical Center’s bariatric surgery program is 5-star rated for superior outcomes by Healthgrades, a trusted source for hospital quality ratings. The program is also accredited by the American College of Surgeons. Additionally, the program holds the Center of Blue Distinction for Bariatrics, OPTUM Center of Excellence for Bariatric Surgery, Cigna Center of Excellence for Bariatrics and Aetna Quality Institute for Bariatrics.

The support group is just one way that JFK for Life provides a personalized approach to weight-loss surgery. Each physician works to create an individualized care plan based upon each patient’s unique needs and weight-loss goals. The multidisciplinary team includes industry-leading physicians, nutritionists, weight loss surgery coordinators, support group counselors, and nurses, who work together to ensure the best possible outcome for each patient. The team performs a complete evaluation before and after surgery and provides continuous education and support throughout the weight-loss journey. More information can be found at jfkforlife.org.

About Hackensack Meridian JFK Medical Center

Serving residents of central New Jersey for more than 50 years, JFK Medical B offers a complete array of advanced services in its 498-bed facility located in Edison, N.J. With more than 1,000 affiliated physicians, this academic medical center offers a complete spectrum of advanced services including general and specialized surgery, cardiac care, maternity and pediatrics, oncology, imaging, breast center, sleep center, wound care, robotic surgery, emergency medicine, weight loss surgery, radiology, long-term care and assisted living. It is home to the world-renowned Neuroscience Institute that diagnoses and treats brain, spine and nervous system disorders. To learn more, visit JFKMC.org.