Bariatric surgery is a complex and challenging undertaking. Psychosocial challenges and the uncontrolled complications of morbid obesity require highly competent and compassionate support. Furniture, hospital equipment, instruments and imaging resources must be suitable to deal with massive patients who often exceed their ideal body weight by 100 pounds. Especially important is a well-trained staff, capable of dealing with the physical and emotional demands of the morbidly obese.

Faced with these issues, the leadership of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) identified the need to recognize the centers that perform well, and with low complications, to help surgeons and hospitals reach optimal levels of performance. Dr. Mark Paya and West Hills Medical Center have been recognized as ASMBS Bariatric Surgery Centers of Excellence® program.

The objective of ASMBS Bariatric Surgery Centers of Excellence and SRC is not to limit bariatric surgery to a few, well-known centers. There are far too many patients in need for such an approach and, further, some of the best reported results are now achieved in community practices. Outcomes are paramount. Poor results are unacceptable.