The team at the Johns Hopkins Center for Bariatric Surgery at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Northwest Washington, D.C., is here to support you every step of your journey to a healthy lifestyle. Our surgeons, dietitians, psychologists and other specialists will guide you before and after the surgery to ensure a successful outcome. Our program is accredited to work with people age 18 and older.
Services and Procedures
Bariatric Procedures
- Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB)
- Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
- Laparoscopic mini gastric bypass
- Revision of previous bariatric surgery, including management or removal of the gastric band, or conversion of a sleeve gastrectomy to a gastric bypass or SADI-s (loop duodenal switch)
Support Services
- Nutrition counseling and classes with bariatric dietitians
- Support groups
- Psychological evaluations and mental health care
- Patient education
- Assistance with appointments and coordination of care
Bariatrics Team and Staff
Surgeons
Our bariatric surgeons specialize in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic bariatric surgery. They will work with you to find the best surgical option for you.
Extended Care Team
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Our program director is a nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in health care, including seven years as a postoperative nurse in a weight loss surgery unit. She helps resolve medical problems and promote overall patient well-being.
- Kate Dobish, M.S.N., A.G.A.C.N.P.
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Our nurses have over 40 combined years of experience in health care. They help support and educate patients before and after surgery.
- Carmela Nguyen, M.S.N., F.N.P.-B.C., N.P.-C.
- Alicia Thigpen, R.N., B.S.N., C.P.A.N., C.L.C.N.
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Our coordinators, each with over 20 years of health care experience, manage appointments and work with patients one-on-one to help answer questions, navigate the insurance approval process and coordinate presurgery clearance.
- Shannon Hurst
- Sharone Butler-Pierce
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Our bariatric dietitians offer nutrition education to help each patient develop healthy eating habits and understand post-weight loss surgery dietary restrictions, behavioral changes and supplements to help ensure long-term success.
- Anna Bougie, R.D.N., L.D.N.
- Jodie Hofacre, R.D., L.D.N., C.D.C.E.S.
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Our psychologists work with patients to address any mental health concerns that could contribute to or result from unhealthy eating habits. They can help with anxiety, addiction, depression, self-esteem problems and more. Our psychologists also provide presurgical evaluation and clearance to ensure you understand the implications of the surgery and are committed to lifestyle change.
Accreditations and Number of Surgeries
Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP)
Sibley Memorial Hospital is one of the few bariatric surgery programs in Washington, D.C., to earn accreditation from the MBSAQIP as a Comprehensive Center with Adult Qualifications.
United Healthcare Bariatrics Center of Excellence
Sibley Memorial Hospital is included in United Healthcare’s Center of Excellence network.
Number of Surgeries
On average, Sibley Memorial Hospital performs around 100 bariatric surgeries a year.
Location and Contact
