Samaritan Weight Management Institute Start your weight loss journey.

Welcome to Samaritan Weight Management Institute

We know that everyone’s weight management needs are not the same. That is why we offer two unique programs, medical weight management and metabolic surgery for weight loss. With either option, you can be confident you’ll receive outstanding service through the expertise and support of our weight loss specialists providing compassionate and thorough care. When you choose Samaritan Weight Management Institute, you are much more than a patient, you become part of our family.

Understand Your Options for Weight Loss

Medical Weight Management

Medical weight management is a non-surgical approach to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. It includes comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans, exercise programs, behavioral support, and weight loss medications.

Benefits

Non-invasive: Achieves weight loss and health improvement over time without surgical risk, post-surgery recovery time or physical changes to the digestive system.
Self-Directed: Develops internal sense of control to achieve sustainable weight loss through new habits, self-regulation, knowledge and skills.
Flexible: Individualized approach that can be adapted to progress, changing needs, individual preferences and goals.

Learn About Our Medical Weight Management Program

Metabolic Surgery for Weight Loss

Metabolic surgery, or bariatric surgery, involves surgical procedures that reduce stomach size and alter hormones that result in desirable changes such as decreased hunger, improved blood sugar levels and substantial weight loss.

Benefits

Rapid & Significant Weight Loss: Often results in substantial weight loss upwards of 1/3 of total body weight in the first 12 months after surgery.
Rapid Improvement in Health Conditions: Can lead to improvement or resolution of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint pain and other obesity-related health conditions.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Smaller incisions result in less pain, scarring and recovery time. Enhanced precision minimizes surgical risks.

Learn About Our Weight Loss Surgery Program

Choosing between medical weight management and weight loss surgery depends on individual health status, weight loss goals and personal preferences. Our team will help you evaluate your options and make an informed decision that considers your unique needs.

Severity of Obesity

Medical weight management may be suitable for those with mild to moderate obesity.
Weight loss surgery is often recommended for individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40) or those with obesity-related health conditions.

Health Conditions

Medical weight management can effectively manage and improve health conditions over time.
Weight loss surgery can provide rapid improvement in conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

Previous Weight Loss Attempts

Medical weight management can be a first step for those ready to try a comprehensive non-surgical approach.
For individuals who have not succeeded with diet, exercise and medications, weight loss surgery may be a more viable option.

Readiness & Commitment

Medical weight management requires adherence to lifelong lifestyle change including diet, exercise and behavioral support as needed.
Weight loss surgery requires a significant commitment to post-operative care, lifelong dietary changes, supplements and regular medical follow-up.

Risk Tolerance

Individuals concerned about surgical risks may prefer the non-invasive option of medical weight management.
Those seeking more immediate and significant weight loss may opt for surgery despite potential risks. As with all major surgery there are associated risks, such as infection, complications and longer recovery periods.

Cost & Insurance

Consider the financial implications and insurance coverage for both options.
Weight loss surgery may involve higher upfront costs but can be cost-effective in the long term due to health improvements.

Attend a Weight Loss Surgery Information Session

Join us for a free virtual information session to help you make an informed decision about weight loss surgery.
Our team will explain the steps involved and whether you are eligible.

Please call us at 541-768-4280 to register and receive log in information.

Tuesday, Dec. 10 – 10:30 a.m. to Noon
Tuesday, Dec. 17 – 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 14 – 10:30 a.m. to Noon
Tuesday, Jan. 21 – 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Metabolic Surgery for Weight Loss

We know that making the choice to have surgery is significant and often comes after trying many other options. It is a pivotal decision and we are here to provide the support, expertise and compassionate care you need as you embark on this journey.

Our weight loss surgery program offers a comprehensive approach to help you achieve lasting weight loss and improved health. We specialize in two advanced surgical options: gastric bypass surgery and vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Our program combines cutting-edge surgical techniques with an integrative approach to post-operative care that addresses multiple aspects of health and behavior for lifelong weight management.

Learn More About Surgery

Bariatric Robotic-assisted Surgery

Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis is a designated hub for robotic-assisted bariatric surgery. The benefits of Robotic-assisted surgery include high definition 3-D viewing for increased surgical precision, smaller incisions, less pain and scarring, fewer complications and faster recovery time than traditional surgery .

Our Specialized Surgical Options

Roux-en-Y (RNY) Gastric Bypass is one of the most commonly used procedures in the United States and has world-wide acceptance. It is recognized as an effective treatment in providing significant weight loss, metabolism changes and long-term weight control. A small stomach pouch is created by dividing the stomach and then re-routing the intestines. This limits the amount of food one can eat, while providing a satisfying “full” sensation as well as beneficial hormone changes. This procedure can also improve blood sugar and cure acid reflux.

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) reduces the size of the stomach without rerouting intestines, resulting in a sense of fullness with a smaller amounts of food. It also has a beneficial effect on metabolism through hormonal changes that assist with weight loss.

Your physician will thoroughly discuss these options to help you make an informed decision that considers your unique needs and goals.

American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery Accreditation Center seal.

Samaritan Weight Management Institute Is MBSAQIP Accredited

As the gold standard for bariatric surgical centers, the Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery Accreditation & Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) accredits bariatric surgery centers in the U.S. and Canada that have undergone an independent, voluntary and rigorous peer evaluation in accordance with nationally recognized bariatric surgical standards. This accreditation promotes uniform standards and ensures continuous quality improvement.

Eligible patients (age 18 to 65) must meet selection criteria, understand possible complications from the surgery and agree to participate in nutritional education and physical activity after surgery.

Many factors are taken into account when assessing candidates for bariatric surgery. The most important factor is the level of obesity. We use a method known as the Body Mass Index (BMI), a formula that considers height and weight. A healthy BMI is about 18 to 25. A BMI of 30 or more reflects obesity, and greater than 40 is considered morbid obesity.

Surgery is not the ideal choice for everyone. In general, those with a BMI greater than 40 or greater than 35 with significant weight-related health problems are the best candidates for surgery.

Successful candidates also need to be highly motivated and dedicated to improving their health. They must understand the goals and limitations of weight loss surgery, be healthy enough to undertake this major procedure and understand the risks.

Our twice a month information sessions can help you determine if your are a good candidate for surgery.

As with any form of major surgery, there are associated risks. Although the risk is relatively low, the consequences of some complications can be devastating and even result in death.

In general, the risks of weight loss surgery increase with a patient’s age and with the severity of other health conditions. These risks include:

Infection.
Bowel obstruction.
Leaks where the bowel is stapled or sewn (staple line or anastomosis).
Breathing problems (pneumonia).
Bleeding.
Blood clots in legs or lung.
Incisional hernia.
Problems from anesthesia.
Band slippage.
Band erosion.
Need for additional operation.
Death.

Please call us.

We are more than happy to talk with you and answer any questions or concerns you have. We also encourage you to attend one of our free monthly classes. Call us to register at: 541-768-4280.

Dr. Erika La Vella is a general and bariatric surgeon who cares for surgical patients with obesity. She enjoys lecturing and teaching about a variety of topics related to weight loss, metabolism and the gut microbiome.

In this video Dr. La Vella discusses the weight loss surgery program at Samaritan Weight Management Institute, the decision to have surgery and preparing for life after surgery.

Why Choose Samaritan Management Institute for Weight Loss Surgery?

We believe our program is the best possible place for your weight loss surgery. It combines outstanding medical quality with a compassionate, comprehensive follow-up program you won’t find elsewhere.

Our approach focuses on three key components to ensure greater outcomes and long-term success.

Patient-Centered Care: We prioritize your unique needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring a personalized approach to your weight loss journey.
Expert Team: Our team of experienced surgeons, dietitians, therapists, and support staff are dedicated to providing excellent care, education and support toward your success.
Long-Term Commitment: We are committed to supporting you not just through the surgical process, but throughout your lifelong weight management journey.

We understand the courage it takes to consider weight loss surgery and are here to provide the compassionate care and comprehensive support you deserve. Join our program and take the first step toward a healthier, happier future.

Medical Weight Management Program

Our medical weight management program is a comprehensive non-surgical approach designed to help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. We recognize that weight management involves more than just diet and exercise. Our program incorporates a wide range of services including medical evaluations, personalized treatment plans, weight loss medications, behavioral support, and ongoing monitoring — all supervised by our team of weight loss experts. Our goal is to support you every step of the way on your journey to better health and well-being.

Key Components

Initial Assessment: A thorough evaluation including medical history, dietary habits, physical activity levels, psychological factors and previous weight loss attempts.
Diagnostic Tests: Laboratory tests to assess metabolic health and screening for endocrine problems, as indicated.
Body Composition Analysis: Use of a medical grade body composition tool to measure body fat percentage, muscle mass and water retention to better understand individual needs. Body composition analysis provides superior understanding and accuracy over observing numbers on a scale.

Medical Conditions Management: Treatment and management of existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and thyroid disorders that can impact weight.
Nutrition Counseling: Development of personalized meal plans by registered dietitians that are balanced, nutritious, and tailored to individual preferences and medical needs.
Customized Physical Activity, Goal Setting and Accountability: Exercise plans created by fitness experts to improve physical activity levels in a safe and effective manner, including aerobic exercises, strength training and flexibility routines.

Pharmacotherapy: Prescription of FDA-approved weight loss medications when appropriate, under careful medical supervision, to assist with weight loss efforts.
Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular follow-ups to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of medications, making adjustments as necessary to ensure optimal results.

Counseling Services: Access to licensed therapists who provide individual or group therapy to address emotional and psychological aspects of weight management, such as stress, anxiety and emotional eating.
Behavioral Modification Programs: Techniques and strategies to develop healthier habits and coping mechanisms, including goal setting, self-monitoring and positive reinforcement.

Regular Check-ins: Scheduled appointments to track progress, make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan and provide ongoing motivation and support.
Precision Wellness: An optional 16-week lifestyle change program to help our patients sustainably achieve optimal health and connect with others on a similar journey. Learn more about Precision Wellness.

Dedicated Team: Our team of compassionate healthcare providers includes physicians, dietitians, fitness trainers and therapists dedicated to providing personalized and empathetic care.
Patient-Centered Approach: Our emphasis is on understanding each individual’s unique challenges and preferences, ensuring a respectful and supportive treatment environment.

Optimize Your Health With Precision Wellness

If you are interested in evidence-based medicine, aspire to get healthier and improve your physical fitness — Precision Wellness is for you!
On average, our participants have lost about 6.4% of their starting body weight, with some losing up to 20%.

Led by our experts in the field of obesity medicine, our 16-week program is designed to teach you skills to gain optimal health and wellness through nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness, sleep and optimizing your metabolism. Individual coaching is tailored to your needs while group activities provide a sense of community and shared experiences.

Participants also receive one-on-one consultation with an endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist with an opportunity to discuss interest and eligibility for weight management medications.

Contact us to learn more, 541-768-4280.

Our next class begins Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Download our flyer.

Dr. Katy Brown is an endocrinologist with Samaritan Weight Management Institute.

Katy Brown, DO, specializes in endocrinology and obesity medicine. She sees patients at Samaritan Weight Management Institute and coordinates the Precision Wellness Program.

In this video Dr. Brown outlines Precision Wellness and offers specific details of what to expect from the 16-week program.

18 years of age or older.
BMI of 30 or greater. Calculate your BMI.

Cost: $999 for the program. *There maybe additional charges for medical visits, lab work and pharmacotherapy which are billed to your health insurance plan.

Precision Wellness is offered twice a year beginning in March and September.

Twice Weekly Session Schedule (subject to change):

Tuesdays: 4-5 p.m. – Virtual meetings (and two in-person sessions).
Thursdays: 5-6 p.m. – Physical activity at SamFit-Albany.

Additional Resources

BMI is used as a population based screening tool as a way to help determine when a person’s weight may translate into increased health risks.

We utilize BMI, waist circumference and body composition in addition to other important health parameters such as blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, etc., to gauge a person’s individual risk of health problems associated with excess weight.

Calculate Your BMI

YES! Body composition testing measures the percentage of fat, muscle and water in the body that helps us understand more about individual needs than numbers on a scale.

We have a medical grade body composition tool that helps us keep track of our patients’ progress and changes in these measurements over time.

Erika La Vella is a bariatric and general surgeon with Samaritan Weight Management Institute.

Dr. Erika La Vella is a bariatric surgeon who cares for patients with obesity. She enjoys lecturing and teaching about a variety of topics related to weight loss, including metabolism and the human gut microbiome.

Watch: Influence of Diet & Metabolism on Weight

Watch: Metabolic Syndrome & Its Impact On Weight Loss

The team at Samaritan Weight Management Institute includes physicians specializing in obesity medicine, registered dietitian nutritionists and behavioral health specialists. You may also work with physical therapists or personal trainers.

Our amazing front and back office staff are another important part of our team. You will frequently interact with our support staff throughout your journey to meet your medical needs and get your questions answered.

Our entire team is committed to your success — we are here for you!