by George L. Blackburn, MD, PhD; Isaac Greenberg, PhD; Anne McNamara, RN; Daniel Rooks, PhD, FACSM; Shannon Fischer, MA; and Kristina Day, RD, LD

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by Susan Gallagher Camden, RN, MSN, WCON, PhD; and Anita Houle

Susan Gallagher Camden, PhD, RN, MA, MSN, CBN, is from the Celebration Institute, Inc., Houston, Texas; Anita Houle is Insurance Authorization Specialist, Cleveland Clinic Florida Bariatric Institute, Weston, Florida.

Introduction
In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of weight loss surgery (WLS) procedures performed in the US. Subsequently, WLS-related medical insurance claims have soared. This increased cost to third-party payers has led to increased scrutiny of WLS procedures. Regardless, more and more individuals are considering it a viable option. This increasing interest is likely because of the realistic promise that successful WLS is expected to help some people control comorbid conditions, engage in regular activities, and improve self esteem. However, not all candidates have resources to cover payment for such surgery. Additionally, there are candidates who have resources but are challenged in accessing them. This challenge is often rooted in the process of insurance approval. Read the rest of this article »

by Nancy Tkacz Browne, RN, MS, CPNP, CBN; Allen Browne, MD; Mark J. Holterman, MD; Ai-Xuan L. Holterman, MD; Nilda Nagle; Christiane Stahl, MD; Amanda Guide, RD; Susan Hollingsworth, PT; April Clark, PT; Kelly Piepenbrink, PT; Amy Phipps, RN, MS, CPNP; Barbara Sherrill, CMA; Larry Turner, Erin Tobin, LCSW; Lilia Gomez, CSR; Sandra Gomez; and Lisa Tussing

Introduction
The current epidemic of childhood and adolescent obesity represents a significant health threat to our nation’s youth. This epidemic spans cultures, genders, socioeconomic levels, and communities. Obesity threatens all children, whether they are of normal weight or at the extreme end of the obesity spectrum. The primary goal of a weight management policy is to prevent obesity in our youth. However, if severe obesity is present, a comprehensive approach to the treatment of obesity and its comorbidities is needed.

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