Websites

National guidance on obesity healthcare

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) provides national guidance and advice to improve health and social care. The NICE guidelines for obesity can be accessed from their website.

Information from healthcare professionals

The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) is a nationally and internationally recognized society for healthcare professionals working in bariatric surgery in the United Kingdom. Their website provides a variety of information about bariatric surgery for professionals and patients.

The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) is a federation composed of national associations of professionals working in bariatric surgery. Their website provides a variety of information about bariatric surgery for professionals and patients.

Patient support

There are many support networks and places to access further information for patients.

If you are thinking about having bariatric surgery and have not already done so, you are strongly advised to link with a patient network as you will find it very helpful to talk to others who are going through the same process, or who have previously had surgery.

Please note that support groups and sources of information are not always regulated by healthcare professionals and it cannot be guaranteed that information is correct and evidence based. If you have any concerns or questions please contact a bariatric surgery team member from Musgrove Park Hospital for advice.

WLSinfo is an online support group, discussion boards and information about obesity surgery in the UK.

Obesity Empowerment Network UK is dedicated to giving people affected by obesity a public voice through empowerment. Their mission includes to improve access to healthcare and treatment for individuals with obesity.

Books

• Living with Bariatric Surgery – Managing Your Mind and Your Weight by Denise Ratcliffe (2018)
• The Emotional First + Aid Kit – A practical guide to life after Bariatric Surgery by Cynthia L Alexander (2009)
• Cut Down to Size – Achieving success with weight loss surgery by Jenny Radcliffe (2013)