Options Program for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Metabolic and bariatric surgery includes a variety of surgical procedures that support weight loss and overall health improvement. Options is Kaiser Permanente’s metabolic and bariatric surgery preparation and support program. It was designed with members and health care professionals to prepare you for surgery and support you long term.
or call (858) 616-5600
Your Program Journey
1. Attend An Informational Orientation
Whether you are just exploring metabolic and bariatric surgery or are ready to start your surgery preparation, Kaiser Permanente is here to support you. Program is available to those 18 years old and up. > Learn more about our program
2. Education & Preparation
Options is Kaiser Permanente’s metabolic and bariatric surgery preparation and support program. It was designed with members and health care professionals to both prepare you for surgery and support you long term. In this stage, you will attend 10 educational workshops, complete health checks, and additional screenings. > View materials and learn more
3. Surgery Scheduling
Upon completion of your Options Program, you will work with our team of Bariatric Surgeons and medical professionals to prepare you for your surgery day. You and your surgeon will determine the best day for your surgery. Bariatric surgeries are performed by Kaiser Permanente Bariatric Surgeons at Scripps Mercy Hospital.
4. Attend Support Groups
Ongoing education and support is essential for the best long-term outcomes from your surgery. Your success depends on a lifelong commitment to healthy habits and we’re here to support you along the way. > View support groups
We’re a phone call or message away.
Contact Our Team
Please note, you should follow up with your surgeon directly for medical questions in the first 4 weeks after surgery.
Kaiser Permanente San Diego Bariatric Services department phone number is 858-616-5722.
- For pre-surgery questions ,please press 1.
- For post-surgery, please press 2.
- For general information on our Options, pre-surgery education program, please press 3.
- We will respond to your message within 24-48 hours, during our operating hours of 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday – Friday. If this is a medical or psychiatric emergency please go to the nearest urgent care center or emergency department.
- Options information en Español or call 858-616-5729
Bariatric Medical Team
For bariatric surgery related medical questions, call 858-616-5788
- Alejandra Diedrich PA
- Arlen Correa RN
- Lisa Cook, NP
- Melissa Villegas RN
- Sam Noonan, PA
- Delina Sherman, MA
- Terry Appleby, MA
- Ruby Hernandez MA
Clinic Locations & Hours
Garfield
Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Vista
Monday & Tuesday
7:30 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm -1:30 pm)
Otay Mesa
Wednesday
9:00 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm -1:30 pm)
Bostonia
Thursday
7:30 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
(Closed from 12:30 pm -1:30 pm)
Your surgery preparation starts with a pre-program informational orientation session. After completion, you’ll attend 10-weekly educational workshops covering nutrition, physical activity and sleep, mental health and wellness, and medical information about your procedure and long-term considerations. During this time, we will begin any medical and psychological testing required by your surgeon.
Educational Materials
Your Workshop Guide
The Options Workshop Guide is your guide to metabolic and bariatric surgery preparation and long-term support at Kaiser Permanente.
Your Post-Surgery Meal Plan
Guide for nutrition after surgery, including stage-specific guidance and quick references for caution foods, protein supplements, and vitamin and mineral supplements.
Your Guide To Vitamins & Minerals After Surgery
Surgery changes the way the body absorbs vitamins and minerals. Use this guide as a quick reference on imporant vitamin and mineral supplements you will need to take for the rest of your life to maintain good health.
Additional Resources
Other helpful links
- Schedule your weight and blood pressure check
- Watch 5-minute exercise videos
- Join our Facebook Group
- Download self-care apps
- 10-workshop review session recording
You may also enjoy any of our additional weight management, nutrition, fitness, and stress management services.
“Although I thought I was ready when I attended the orientation, I learned so much in my weekly classes. I feel confident that I can succeed.”
Classes to support your success
We want you to feel well-prepared before surgery and to feel supported lifelong after surgery. We offer a variety of classes to meet the most common needs. No fee for KP members, click below to sign up! Or call 858-616-5600. All services are also available in Spanish and are only available to KP members.
JAM (Joy and Movement)
Tuesdays 5-6:00 p.m.; Online
Plan to move your body for 30 minutes and then stay for a 30 minute Q&A session on fitness related topics. Open and accessible to all. Suitable for anyone preparing for surgery or post-surgery. >Schedule now
First Few Months
Tuesdays 12-1:00 p.m.; Online
Get support as your transition through diet stages and learn new skills to feel your best after surgery. Best for those in the first 12-18 months after surgery. >Schedule now
Nutrition and Lifestyle Support Group
Wednesdays 6-7:30 p.m.; Online
Meet with others who are on the same journey to discuss nutrition after surgery and share experiences or get advice from others. For anyone in the preparation or post-surgery stage. >Schedule now
Making Peace with Food
Mondays 5-6:00 p.m. or Tuesdays 4-5:00 p.m.; Online
Led by a mental health clinician, this class is based on the 10 Principles of Intuitive Eating. Suitable for anyone preparing for surgery or post-surgery. >Schedule now
If you have graduated from your 10-sessions, follow up in weekly support groups on Mondays at 4 pm >Schedule now
Back to Basics
Tuesdays 4-5:00 p.m. or 7-8:00 p.m.; Online
For those looking to get back on track after surgery. This is a safe place to share experiences with weight regain, vitamin deficiencies, eating struggles, and more. Designed for post surgery patients. >Schedule now
Jumpstart!
Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Online
This 5-part series provides a meal plan, education, and support as you work to acheive your pre-surgery weight loss goals. >Schedule now
Pregnancy Support After Surgery
2nd Tuesdays 6-7 p.m.; Online
Attend this monthly education and support group with a registered dietitian to learn how to have a healthy pregnancy after bariatric surgery. There is no fee to attend, open to KP members only. Call 858-616-5722 to schedule.>Schedule now
Has your surgeon recommended a pre-surgery liquid diet or the use of meal replacements? >View your program information here