Preoperative Tests Help Bariatric Clinics Assess Mental Health

A battery of psychological assessment tests assist doctors in bariatric clinics in evaluating candidates for weight-loss surgery.

The tests are primarily based on Surgical Weight-Loss Psychological Screening (SWLPS) assessment, a psychological test developed specifically for bariatric surgery candidates that has been used since 2002, and combines assessment of most psychological factors that play a role in the success of the procedure. The SWLPS screens for binge eating, anxiety and depressive disorders, suicidal tendencies, substance and drug use, all of which are significant risk factors. It also evaluates the person's emotional strength and the type of coping techniques most often used to deal with stress and change, which is paramount to successful adjustment to a new lifestyle. In addition, the test assesses compliance and self-motivation - factors that play into the patient's ability to stick with the program.

Other tests made available to bariatric surgeons that can be used for in-depth analysis include tests for emotional eating, coping skills, depression, culture fair IQ, and emotional intelligence. As a whole, standardized tests allow clinics the additional security of quantitative decision-support data to assist in electing patients for surgery. Psychological assessments can also be used as a follow-up during postoperative care, as patients cope with their new body and life. The reports generated include graphical results and detailed interpretations of the test-taker's answers on the test, identification of strengths and weaknesses, and practical advice and tips. The tests were developed by PsychTests (Montreal, Canada).

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