INTROSPECT OF BUXMONT
Bariatric Psychological Services
Dear Patient,
Your Doctor has referred you to INTROSPECT for psychological testing as part of your evaluation for consideration of bariatric surgery. A psychological evaluation is a routine procedure for all bariatric patients. Here are a few common questions and answers about this evaluation.
Q: What happens if I fail the test?
A: The psychological evaluation is not a pass or fail test. It is one of many consultations that your doctor will take into consideration regarding your preparedness for surgery. Ultimately he or she will make the final determination about the procedure. A psychological evaluation is also used to assist with psychological preparation for the surgery and to assist with recovery after surgery and to help maximize your potential for long-term success with the necessary changes that will follow.
Q: Whom will I be seeing for the evaluation?
A: Dr. Frank Sergi usually conducts these evaluations. He is a Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist and Associate Medical Director at INTROSPECT, which is an outpatient private psychiatric practice in Colmar, PA. He has extensive experience and training in medical rehabilitation and eating disorders. You can find more information about his background at INTROSPECT’s website, www.introspectcare.com.
Q: Is there any preparation needed for the evaluation?
A: When you make an appointment with Dr. Sergi, his staff will send out two forms for you to complete ahead of time. One form is a general medical, psychological and weight management history. The second is a health survey called the SF-36, which gives us a measure of how you function on a wide range of activities. This can also be used later to monitor your progress post surgery.
Q: What happens during the evaluation?
A: Dr. Sergi will sit down with you for about 30 to 45 minutes to get to know you and to review your history. This will allow him to get an idea of how you are functioning emotionally and psychologically and to discuss with you your thoughts and feelings about your obesity and bariatric surgery. This consultation is also necessary to interpret the results of any psychological testing that is needed. One widely used test all patients are given is called the MMPI-2. This test takes anywhere from 1 to 1 ½ hours to complete. It is a simple true and false test that you will take in the office that same day. This test will help determine how prepared you are for surgery, assist your treatment team in preparing you for surgery, and enhance the likelihood of your long-term success in the program.
Q: I already see a psychiatrist or psychologist. Why can’t that doctor evaluate me?
A: Most psychiatrists and psychologists who treat patients do not perform such evaluations or lack the expertise to do so. However, some may agree to perform such evaluations. If they are willing to do so check with your doctor first. If you are currently in treatment outside of INTROSPECT, but will be seeing Dr. Sergi for the bariatric psychological consultation, with your permission he will contact them to assist him in his evaluation.
Q: Will I have to see go to INTROSPECT more than once?
A: Most patients will not require any further psychological visits. For some patients, Dr. Sergi may make recommendations for counseling or possibly a psychiatric consultation to best prepare you for the procedure. INTROSPECT has psychiatrists and therapists on staff to whom Dr. Sergi may refer you. A follow-up visit with Dr. Sergi four to six weeks following surgery to assess your adjustment to the surgery is suggested. Additional visits may be recommended if you or your doctor feel that it is necessary. We encourage everyone to attend our Bariatric Support Group which Dr. Sergi will tell you about at the time of your evaluation.
Q: Who will get the psychologist’s report?
A: Your report always goes to your surgeon and sometimes to your primary care doctor if requested by you.
Q: Will my insurance cover the psychological evaluation and treatment?
A: Yes, in the majority of cases your insurance will cover this service. Dr. Sergi’s staff will verify that this is a covered benefit for you when you call to arrange an appointment.
Q: How do I make an appointment?
A: Call INTROSPECT at 215-997-3600 Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:30 am and 4:30 P.M. and ask for an appointment with Dr. Sergi for Bariatric Surgery Evaluation.