Weight Loss Management

If you need medically managed weight loss services in the Palm Springs area, the Center for Weight Management at Desert Care Network can help you lose weight and get healthier.

To connect with a nurse navigator, call us at 855-631-7284 or fill out our form and we will contact you with more information.

new-mbasqip-logo---bariatricsYou can also attend one of our free informational seminars. Click here to reserve your space.

  • For those who choose weight-loss surgery, the Center for Weight Management is an MBSAQIP comprehensive accredited center , offering gastric bypass, lap band and gastric sleeve procedures
  • We support patients through the entire experience beginning with initial assessment and continuing through bariatric surgery, recovery and lifelong lifestyle changes.
  • A dedicated weight loss surgeon will work as a team with a registered dietician, registered nurses and highly trained hospital staff

Diet and exercise sometimes aren’t enough to get the results you want.

The bariatric specialists at the Center for Weight Management can help. Not only can you lose a significant amount of weight associated with obesity, you can live a healthier, potentially longer life by minimizing other health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, depression and joint problems.

The Center for Weight Management at Desert Care Network offers a number of options for those struggling to lose weight.

Plus, you can access valuable resources, support groups, nutritional counseling, personal training and much more to help you take back control of your obesity and regain a healthy, happy lifestyle.


Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery.

FAQ: What to Know About Your Stay During COVID-19

  1. rachel-millard
    Rachel Millard, DNP, FNP-C
    Nurse Practitioner
    Center for Weight Management
    Is the hospital safe?

    The hospital has taken extensive precautions to protect both our patients and staff. All staff wear masks and face shields and we provide every patient with a mask as well. Our COVID-19 patients have designated units that are separate from non-COVID patients. There is even a COVID-only elevator! Additionally, our cleaning staff has increased their already frequent rounding to ensure the safety of all patients. To learn more about the precautions we’re taking to ensure your or your loved ones safety, visit our COVID SAFE page.

  2. Will I get tested for COVID-19 before surgery?

    Yes. You will get multiple phone calls from our pre-op department starting about a week before surgery. You will be asked screening questions for potential COVID exposures. Three to four days before surgery you will be tested for COVID and then asked to self-quarantine at home until surgery.

  3. Should I wait until the pandemic has passed to get my surgery?

    Having surgery is always a personal decision. Patients that are overweight are at higher risk of severe illness if they contract COVID-19. COVID-19 will likely be with us long-term, so any weight loss can improve your overall health.

  4. Does having surgery make my immune system compromised and at higher risk for COVID-19?

    Any surgery can be stressful to the body, but fortunately bariatric surgery has a short recovery time. Most low-impact activities can be done after 2 weeks, and at 6 weeks there are no more restrictions on activity. Many of our patients are discharged home on less medication than what they took before surgery, and the health benefits from bariatric surgery often start immediately.

  5. Can my family member stay with me at the hospital?

    We currently have a no-visitors policy for the safety of our staff and patients. If there are extenuating circumstances, please contact us. For full details, visit our Visitor Information page.

  6. Will I have to quarantine at home after surgery?

    We recommend social distancing and avoiding non-essential activities for everyone, not just surgery patients. You will not be required to quarantine after surgery, but learning how to manage your new stomach is a full time job at first. We recommend staying at home to have an easier recovery.

  7. If I have a caretaker, will they also be tested for COVID?

    We are not currently testing caregivers of our surgical patients, however we do screen all of our patients multiple times before surgery. If there is a chance you or your caregiver was exposed to COVID, please let us know immediately and we can help facilitate testing.

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