In our Insights articles, our goal is to enlighten and educate our caretech customers about the diverse range of individuals they may encounter while providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. We have discussed wheelchair-bound customers, those requiring stretchers, and recently, individuals needing transportation to and from dialysis appointments, physical therapy and adult day care centers. However, we have not yet explored the unique needs of bariatric customers receiving treatment for obesity.
That’s what we'll address here now, but first, let's understand what bariatrics even is.
Bariatrics is a branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity. It encompasses a wide range of treatment modalities, including lifestyle and behavioral changes, pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Bariatric professionals include doctors, dietitians, surgeons and other healthcare providers, including NEMTs, who specialize in helping patients manage obesity through medical and surgical means.
In short, while obesity refers to the condition of having excess body fat, bariatrics refers to the medical field dedicated to the treatment and management of obesity.
Our big Bambi hearts go out to these patients who are on the journey to better health. They have made the courageous decision to seek treatment for their obesity and are actively engaged in this process. This is why they rely on NEMT services to get to their appointments and take steps toward managing their weight. They need your NEMT provider support more than ever. Because sadly, sometimes, these individuals have been ostracized by their families due to their weight issues, leaving them with few sources of support, which can be incredibly isolating and distressing.
To better understand the scope and impact of bariatric treatments, consider these statistics:
Over 250,000 bariatric surgeries are performed annually in the United States. Approximately 42.4% of adults in the US are obese, increasing the demand for bariatric treatments. Bariatric surgery is considered one of the most effective treatments for severe obesity, with significant weight loss and health improvements reported. The prevalence of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea is high, further driving the need for bariatric treatments. Bariatric surgery can reduce mortality rates in severely obese patients by 30-40%. These facts underscore the significant impact of obesity and the crucial role of bariatric treatments in addressing this health issue in the United States. (Source: American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)).
NEMT services are essential for ensuring bariatric patients receive safe, reliable and comfortable transportation to their medical appointments and therapy sessions, supporting their overall health and well-being. Here’s how:
Specialized NEMT vehicles: Bariatric patients often require vehicles that can accommodate their size and weight safely. NEMT providers often have specialized vehicles equipped with ramps, lifts and larger seating capacities to transport bariatric patients comfortably.
Accessibility: NEMT services ensure that bariatric riders have access to transportation that meets their mobility needs. This includes assistance via a helping hoof with boarding and disembarking from the vehicle, which can be challenging for individuals with such limited mobility.
Regular medical appointments: Bariatric patients may need regular medical appointments for follow-ups, nutritional counseling and post-surgery rehabilitation through physical therapy. NEMT services help ensure they can attend these appointments on a consistent basis.
Safety and comfort: NEMT providers are trained to handle the unique needs of bariatric patients, ensuring their safety and comfort during transportation. This includes properly securing the patient and equipment — such as their wheelchairs to prevent injury during transit.
Dignity and independence: Access to reliable NEMT allows bariatric patients to maintain their independence and dignity, rather than relying on family members or struggling with inaccessible public transportation.
All in all, the compassionate care provided by NEMT drivers plays a significant role in the lives of bariatric patients. Beyond ensuring safe and comfortable transportation, these drivers offer empathy and support that is invaluable to these often vulnerable riders.
As a caretech company deeply committed to the well-being of our customers and their customers, we understand the importance of this support. We strive to ensure that bariatric patients receive the very best care from our dear NEMT providers.It is through their dedication and empathy that we can all make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve, supporting their journey to improved health and quality of life. Now that’s the Bambi way after all!
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