A record of bariatric excellence
Dr. Jorge Sosa, medical director of bariatric surgery, Palmetto General Hospital
Dr. Jorge Sosa has been at Palmetto General Hospital for nearly two decades, acting as the medical director of bariatric surgery for the past 10 years. He has seen firsthand how the hospital and community have grown together hand-in-hand.
"Palmetto is part of the community," he says. "It is one of the biggest hospitals in this area, and over the last 20 years, it has grown into a major tertiary facility with very advanced clinical programs. It is a great opportunity and pleasure to build something from the ground up."
The bariatric program began in 2004, and Dr. Sosa feels fortunate to have helped it grow into a certified Center of Excellence. It is now one of the leading bariatric surgery programs in the state. Currently, more than 300 bariatric surgical procedures are performed each year, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and lap bands.
But despite its growth and size, Palmetto's bariatric program continues to foster a community-feel.
"People maintain long-term relationships and loyalty to the hospital," Dr. Sosa says. "I really think the community attitude makes a difference. At Palmetto, we have a very close connection to each of our patients and their families."