In order to evaluate you for transfer of care, we will need a surgical report and copy of your adjustments as well as a current health history form and reason for your need or want to transfer before we can evaluate you as a patient. All transfer patients must see our surgeon.
CHI Memorial Metabolic and Bariatric Care
Weight loss isn't always simple, but it's easier when you have a great program and caring people supporting you. CHI Memorial Metabolic and Bariatric Care offers comprehensive non-surgical and surgical weight loss solutions to help individuals struggling with obesity lose weight and keep it off. Whichever you choose, you'll get a program that's specifically designed to help you reach your weight loss goals and live the life you were meant to live. Everyone has different challenges when it comes to losing weight – that’s why we offer an individual approach based on your medical history and specific concerns.
Bariatric surgery
Weight loss surgery is usually for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above, or those who have a BMI of 35 or above with other conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease or sleep apnea. Ready to take the first step? Call (423) 899-1000
Non-surgical weight loss
Our obesity medicine program is a non-surgical option that includes a a customized plan based on your medical history and weight loss challenges. Call (423) 899-1000 to schedule an appointment.
Get started
CHI Memorial utlizes Go Further, a free app to help you get started on your weight loss journey.
Our team
Jaime Ponce, MD, FACS, FASMBS
Bariatric Surgeon, Medical Director of CHI Memorial Metabolic and Bariatric Care
Rishabh Shah, MD, MBA, FACS, FASMBS
Bariatric Surgeon, General Surgeon
Brooke Henson, FNP-C, CBN
Nurse Practitioner
Mary Ballard, RD, LD
Registered Dietitian
Graham Brannan, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Patient form
Frequently asked questions
As long as you are committed to the pre-operative requirements and are committed to coming back to see us at least four times in the first year after surgery, we will take care of out of town patients. If you feel that the distance may be an obstacle to your follow up care, then we will refer you to a doctor closer to you to perform the surgery.
We work with most all commercial insurances. Check with your insurance to see if Dr. Ponce is in or out-of-network. If we are out-of-network with your insurance, as long as you have out-of-network coverage and benefits we will still accept your insurance.
We operate at CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga, 2525 deSales Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
CHI Memorial is accredited by the ASMBS (American Society for Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery) and the ACS (American College of Surgeons) under the MBSAQIP (Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program).
Online Check In
Did you know that our practice allows you to check in online ahead of time? You can confirm your appointment via text message or email, and check in online prior to your visit. You can also check in on your own device when you arrive. Ask us about using mobile registration to make your next visit simpler and faster!
We are partnering with Phreesia to help you save time registering for your appointment. Use mobile check-in to register from any smartphone, tablet or computer from the privacy of your own home. Checking in on your device saves you time and ensures your information is always up to date!
