CHRISTUS Santa Rosa – Westover Hills earns re-accreditation for bariatric program

CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Westover Hills has achieved re-accreditation for its bariatric surgery program, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality and compassionate care to patients pursuing surgical weight-loss solutions.

The accreditation recognizes the hospital for meeting rigorous national standards for equipment, staffing, training and patient outcomes.

“This designation shows that CHRISTUS has made the commitment to provide the very best care for all patients,” said Dr. Keith Wright, medical director of the CHRISTUS Health Weight Loss Institute. “It’s not just about the operating room — it's a full comprehensive program that involves equipment, education and training to provide the best care for bariatric surgery patients.”

Wright and his longtime partner, Dr. Gerardo Carcamo, have practiced together for nearly 25 years and have led accredited bariatric programs for almost two decades. Their experience involves a full spectrum of procedures, from minimally invasive gastric balloons and lap-band placements to the advanced single-anastomosis duodenal switch, which utilizes both gastric reduction and intestinal malabsorption to achieve weight loss.

“Because of our breadth of experience, we can tailor the right procedure for each patient based on their weight, their medical problems, their age and what their long-term goals are,” Wright said.

The program’s success also relies on strong support from outside the operating room. A registered dietitian nutritionist works closely with patients to promote healthy habits, manage nutrition and maintain long-term success.

“Our weight loss program is well established, allowing patients to form strong bonds and support each other’s growth,” said Emily Sanson, registered dietitian with CHRISTUS Health’s Weight Loss Institute. “These meetings provide our post-surgical patients with a safe environment to ensure they continue to meet their goals while meeting with others going through the same experience.”

Achieving the re-accreditation for the bariatric program is a part of CHRISTUS’ commitment to providing patients with comprehensive care on the west side of town.

“We are continuously looking to enhance our existing programs while we seek opportunities to grow new ones,” said Derrick Cuenca, CEO of CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Westover Hills. “We serve a large community on the west side of Bexar County and surrounding communities. We are proud of the work our team has put in to receive this re-accreditation, affirming our excellence in care for the bariatric program.”

To learn more about the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa – Westover Hills bariatric program, call (210) 703-9440.