Creighton University Medical Center (CUMC) has been named a Bariatric Center of Excellence by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS). The ASBS Center of Excellence designation recognizes surgical programs with a demonstrated track record of favorable outcomes and a complication rate of less than one percent in bariatric surgery.

“CUMC has always been known for excellence in bariatric surgery,” said CUMC CEO Linda Ollis. “Our comprehensive approach to surgical weight loss has earned CUMC an excellent reputation. This quality achievement helps solidify our hospital as being a leader in providing quality care that helps improve the lives of our patients.”

Ranjan Sudan, M.D., Medical Director of CUMC’s Bariatric Program, said “This designation recognizes our achievements over the last five years and acknowledges our ability to offer high-quality surgical care. Our compassionate patient care is an essential component to help improve both the quality and quantity of life for patients who are disabled by their obesity.”

The ASBS Centers of Excellence program was created to recognize bariatric surgery centers that meet the highest standards in the industry and to help surgeons and hospitals continue to improve the quality and safety of care provided.

CUMC underwent a series of site inspections during which all aspects of the program’s surgical processes were closely examined and data on health outcomes were collected in order to earn a Center of Excellence designation.

As a designated Center of Excellence, CUMC agrees to continue to share information on clinical pathways, protocols and outcomes data.

Obesity has become a significant national health issue, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that 66 percent of all U.S. adults are overweight or obese. Morbid obesity is closely correlated with a number of serious conditions that severely undermine the health of overweight patients, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Bariatric surgery, when performed correctly, can assist patients in managing these conditions.

Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an independent non-profit organization dedicated to pursuing surgical excellence, formulates and establishes the rigorous standards with which CUMC and other Centers of Excellence must comply. SRC thoroughly inspects and evaluates each candidate and upon review recommends approval of Center of Excellence designation for those physicians and facilities whose practices and outcomes meet the standards set forth by SRC and ASBS.