Background

We continue to see inadequate patient compliance and retention within metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). As technology advances, we have seen solutions come to market to address these challenges. Our objective was to evaluate features and benefits of a MBS patient digital application. We hypothesize that use of such an application will increase patient retention and satisfaction and streamline the practice processes.

Methods

We reviewed our 2-year experience utilizing the GoFurtherTM (GF) digital application designed for MBS patients within our newly established bariatric private practice. This digital platform is a customizable on-line bariatric surgery patient tracking system with virtual weight management options. Patients were enrolled in either a basic on-demand offering of GF or a more comprehensive version with on-line dietician and psychologist visits dependent upon the patients’ insurance as well as needs.

Results

Since our practice inception, 58 patients were invited to join the platform, 14 have not joined yet and most are lost to follow-up. Of these, 33 underwent bariatric surgery and 11 are still completing the bariatric surgery program prerequisites. Patients who completed the process expressed satisfaction with the app usage and enjoyed seeing their completion stages and remaining steps left in real time.

Conclusions

The continued challenges and barriers that MBS face has led to new technological advancements to support the practices as well as patients they serve. MBS programs adopting such virtual patient engagement platforms are likely to have higher patient retention rates and conversions to surgery, decreased staff burden and increased patient satisfaction.