Samaritan Welcomes Bariatric Surgeon Julio Bird, MD July 22, 2022 Julio Bird, MD, has joined Samaritan Weight Management Institute. He specializes in minimally invasive weight loss procedures using the da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical system. Dr. Bird earned a bachelor’s degree at University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and a medical degree at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He completed an internship at AMITA Health Saint Joseph Hospital, residency training at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center and a fellowship in bariatric surgery at MIMIS – Cuyuna Regional Medical Center. Dr. Bird’s father was also a physician. Seeing how he related to his patients and the impact he made in their lives inspired him to become a doctor. “I wanted to be able to do the same for my patients,” Dr. Bird said. He likes to talk with his patients and discuss the different options to decide a treatment plan that is in their best interest. “My approach is to come up with a plan that matches their goals,” Dr. Bird said. Dr. Bird chose bariatric surgery because of the difference it can make in improving people’s health. “I see how much better people feel as a result of their procedure,” he said. He chose Samaritan for its mission of Building Healthier Communities Together and the values he shares of passion, respect, integrity, dedication and excellence. Away from the office, he enjoys spending time with family and practicing martial arts. Dr. Bird can be reached at Samaritan Weight Management Institute at 541-768-4280.