Pre-Bariatric Surgery (Weight Loss) Psychological Assessment

Dr. Gordhamer's primary focus is with pre-surgery psychological assessment for people looking toward weight loss surgery.  He has been providing this type of assessment since 1988.  As of May, 2008, Dr. Gordhamer has provided over 2,000 psychological assessments related to weight loss.

Dr. Gordhamer's most recent publication is the chapter entitled "Psychological Assessment," in the The Sages Manual April 2009: A Practical Guide to Bariatric Surgery by Eldo Freeza, M.D., M.B.A., FACS, Professor of Surgery, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Mitchel Wachtel, M.D. , Associate Professor, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and Rolf Gordhamer, Ph.D., Director Emeritus, Student Counseling Center, Texas Tech University.

These psychological assessments can be provided in Dr. Gordhamer's office or they may be provided via technology anywhere in the United States. Distance education and distance counseling are common in our society.  Technology such as computer video cameras, SKYPE, fax machines, telephone-video conferencing, etc., have made it possible for individuals to participate in psychological assessments while sitting in their own living room.  These services are available to any patient, but are particularly convenient for patients who live a distance from psychological providers, or for patients with mobility issues, or patients who have no designated psychologist.

Distance Assessments can be convenient for physicians as well as patients.  Psychological reports can be completed within a few days.  Inventory and assessment materials used are easily faxed to the physician and/or patient.

The costs of assessments are usually covered by insurance.  In those cases where insurance does not cover the assessment, the cost to the patient is a minimal expense of no more than $100.  Patients are offered a pro-bono follow-up contact post surgery to assess adjustment.

Summary of Distance Psychological Assessment

• Efficient and effective by an experienced psychologist

• Psychological report turnover in 2-4 days

• Suitable system for all bariatric patients

• Particularly effective for immobile or rural patients

• Helpful for patients with no designated psychologist

• Relieves physician of psychological liability issues

• Offers pro-Bono post-surgery follow-up contact with patient to assess adjustment.