Best Bariatric Surgeons in Grand Rapids

Introduction to Bariatric Medicine in Grand Rapids

Overview of Bariatric Medicine

Bariatric medicine is a specialized field focused on the treatment of obesity and related conditions. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, this medical specialty has gained significant importance as the city strives to address health concerns related to obesity.

Bariatric medicine encompasses a range of interventions, from non-surgical approaches such as dietary counseling and medication management to surgical procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. These treatments aim to help patients achieve significant weight loss and improve obesity-related health conditions.

Importance of Choosing the Right Bariatric Specialist

Selecting the right bariatric specialist is a significant decision that can profoundly affect a patient's health outcomes. The expertise and experience of the chosen doctor play a key role in the success of weight loss treatments and the management of related health issues.

Bariatric care often involves a long-term relationship between the patient and their doctor. This ongoing partnership is essential for maintaining weight loss, addressing potential complications, and ensuring continued health improvements. In Grand Rapids, patients have access to several highly-rated bariatric specialists who can provide this level of comprehensive, long-term care.

Navigating Bariatric Care in Grand Rapids

Overview of Local Healthcare Landscape

Prominent hospitals offering bariatric services

• Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital
• Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital
• Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital
• Corewell Health Greenville Hospital

Insurance considerations

• Importance of checking insurance coverage
• Potential out-of-pocket costs

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Bariatric Specialist

Qualifications and certifications

• Board certifications (e.g., American Board of Surgery)
• Specialized training in bariatric procedures

Experience and specialization

• Years of practice in bariatric medicine
• Types of procedures performed
• Additional specialties (e.g., endocrinology, general surgery)

Patient reviews and ratings

• Star ratings on platforms like Healthgrades
• Number of patient reviews
• Testimonials and feedback

Top-Rated Bariatric Specialists in Grand Rapids

Dr. Joshua Smith

Qualifications and Experience

• Board-certified in Bariatric Surgery
• Educated at Michigan State University

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• 30 patient reviews

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital
• Contact: (616) 267-7400

Dr. Paul Kemmeter

Expertise

• Specializes in Bariatric, General, and Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Board-certified by the American Board of Surgery

Education and Training

• Graduated from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
• Completed residency and fellowship at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital

Patient Feedback

• 4.8-star rating on Healthgrades
• 18 patient reviews

Practice Details

• Affiliated with Trinity Health Grand Rapids Hospital
• Contact: (616) 956-6100

Dr. Mary Dagen

Specialization

• Dual expertise in Bariatric Medicine and Family Medicine
• Board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.7-star rating on Healthgrades
• 60 patient reviews - highest number among listed specialists

Hospital Affiliations

• Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital
• Corewell Health Greenville Hospital
• Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital

Contact Information

• Phone: (616) 267-7400

Other Notable Specialists

Dr. Kerianne Holman

• Specializes in Bariatric Surgery
• Affiliated with multiple Corewell Health hospitals
• 3.8-star rating with 25 reviews

Dr. Omar Ghanem

• Expertise in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, and Bariatric Medicine
• Perfect 5-star rating, but limited number of reviews (4)

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Bariatric Specialist in Grand Rapids

Online Platforms and Directories

Healthgrades

• Detailed doctor profiles
• Patient ratings and reviews
• Educational background and certifications

Hospital Websites

• Corewell Health System
• Trinity Health Grand Rapids
• Physician directories and specialties

Local Health Organizations

Grand Rapids Medical Society

• Local physician network
• Community health resources

Michigan Bariatric Society

• Specialized bariatric information
• Educational events and seminars

Consultation and Second Opinions

Preparing for Consultations

• List of questions to ask
• Medical history compilation
• Insurance coverage verification

Seeking Multiple Perspectives

• Benefits of second opinions
• Comparing different approaches to bariatric care