Multi-disciplinary Team Approach
Maximizing the likelihood of successful surgical outcomes for patients begins with a foundation of education and knowledge. While personal research plays a role, studies consistently demonstrate that pre-operative education and evaluations conducted by a cohesive multi-disciplinary team yield the highest rates of success.
This dedicated team extends beyond the surgeon performing the operation. It comprises a group of dedicated individuals that help prepare the patients for surgery. Additionally, a specialized team, well-versed in caring for bariatric patients during the post-operative phase, remains readily available as immediate points of contact for support and inquiries. Remarkably, both of our NGPG registered dietitians hold certificates of training in obesity management for adults and adolescents.
The overarching philosophy and shared objective of this multi-disciplinary team lie in meticulously screening all patients prior to surgery. This thorough assessment aims to identify and address any potential concerns, ensuring both safety and long-term success throughout the entire surgical process and beyond.
NGPG General Surgery – Bariatric Support Team
Alex C. Nguyen, MD
Physician
Dr. Nguyen is the Medical Director of Bariatric Surgery at NGMC and serves the surrounding communities of Northeast Georgia from offices in Gainesville and Braselton. Board Certified in General Surgery, Dr. Nguyen has provided excellent healthcare for patients in this area for nearly over 5 years. He enjoys working with patients to bring them into the place of health they need and want to be.
April Robinson, LPN
Bariatric Nurse
April received her practical nursing diploma from North Georgia Technical College in 2008. In 2014, she joined NGPG Surgical Associates as Dr. Alex Nguyen’s primary nurse. She loves working with bariatric patients and helping them to be successful with their weight loss journey. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and working in her home, all while pursuing her bachelor’s degree at the University of North Georgia.
Jennifer Way, RD, LD
Bariatric Program Coordinator | NGPG BMI Dietitian
Jennifer obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from the University of Georgia. She furthered her education through a comprehensive post-baccalaureate graduate dietetic internship program at Georgia Southern University. Jennifer is driven by a passion to inspire her clients to cultivate mindful and conscious eating habits, while fostering a positive and empowering relationship with food and nutrition. She wholeheartedly embraces individuals at every stage of their journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Notably, Jennifer has garnered expertise in obesity management for both adults and pediatrics, earning a certificate of training in this area. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating the bariatric surgery program alongside her patient consultations.
Rebecca Costa
Bariatric Program Specialist
Rebecca is typically the first person our surgical weight loss patients come in contact with and one of the main points of contact. She handles all incoming referrals for the NGPG Bariatric surgical program. She sends out information to get the patients started with the program and then verifies their benefits. She coaches patients on the importance of sticking to the plan and being compliant to have a successful journey after weight loss surgery.
As a previous weight loss surgery patient of Dr. Alex Nguyen, she understands how scary starting this process is. Rebecca greatly enjoys helping our patients succeed in this life-changing process! She is a follower of Jesus, a wife and a mother to 3 wonderful children (and a dog mom)! She loves anything outdoors, and spending time with her friends and family.
Charlotte Hill, MS, RD, LDN
NGPG BMI Dietitian
Charlotte grew up in Georgia and received her Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from the University of Georgia then went on to receive a Coordinated Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from The University of Pittsburgh. After working in various realms of the nutrition world including healthcare, foodservice and the food industry, Charlotte moved back to her home state of Georgia and is happy to be a part of the NGPG BMI team. She is passionate about health and wellness and educating patients on nutrition, so they feel empowered to take control of their health through diet and exercise. Charlotte continues to expand her knowledge in this area, recently earning a Certificate of Training in Obesity for Adults and Pediatrics.
Contact Our Team Today
Would you like more information about our services, procedures, and free educational opportunities? Call 770-219-9200 or fill out a quick contact form.