Meet the Weight Loss Surgery Team

Our Team of Bariatric Surgery Professionals

My Bariatric Solutions has built a reputation for providing outstanding and compassionate care. Patients from throughout the Metroplex and even from outside of Texas have traveled to our weight loss surgery center to receive treatment from our team of talented weight loss experts. Dr. Scott Stowers leads a team of multi-disciplinary professionals who specialize in the causes and complications of obesity, its treatment, and related issues. Our specialists include a bariatric nurse coordinator, registered dietitian, an exercise physiologist and multiple psychologists. We can also provide additional expertise in the areas of cardiology, pulmonary medicine (sleep apnea), and physical therapy. Anesthesiologists, our office staff, and the patient's personal physician are also involved.

Amanda Cross, Program Director

Amanda is the director of the My Bariatric Solutions program. In conjunction with Dr. Scott Stowers, Amanda helped to establish the program in September 2006. Amanda is dedicated to ensuring that patients have easy access to all the resources available that will help them be successful. She helps coordinate all aspects of the patients experience at My Bariatric Solutions.

Amanda was born in Lubbock, Texas and graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Exercise Science and Nutrition Science. She has her personal training certification through the American Council on Exercise and is also a Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant. She is also a member of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

According to Cross, "It is very fulfilling to work with patients throughout their weight loss journey. From informational seminars to post-operative follow-ups, it is amazing how much the patients change in just a short time."

Melinda Lewis, Clinic Coordinator

I am responsible for making sure the clinic runs smoothly and efficiently.  I oversee the billing and collections of the surgical practice.  I answer patient’s questions regarding billing on the physicians side.  I have worked for Dr. Stowers for over twenty years.

I am from originally from San Antonio and have lived in Paradise, TX  for 30 years. I enjoy spending time with my family and singing in the church choir and shopping.  In my spare time, I love to cook and do "Pinterest" crafts.

Clinicians

Dakota Pittman, RN, Mobile Unit Supervisor

I am the RN in charge of the Lap-Band Wagon handling the Band adjustments for our patients.  I have been with My Bariatric Solutions since June 2012.  Prior to that I was in recovery nurse (PACU) at Wise Regional Health System for 3 years.  I am also a patient of Dr. Stowers. I had the gastric sleeve in December of 2010. I went from a size 18 to a size 6!  I feel amazing!

I am happily married and have 3 beautiful children

Mistey Patterson, RN, Bariatric Nurse

I started with My Bariatric Solutions in July 2011 as  a nurse coordinator.  I coordinate with patients to ensure they meet all their pre-operative needs, answer any questions they may have pre/post op, visit all inpatient post-op patients before they discharge from the facility after a sleeve/bypass, order their labs for the year post op, get all lab results and discuss with physician, order medications, call all post op patients for f/u.

I perform Lap-Band adjustments when needed, if the mobile unit is traveling or a patient is having an emergent issue with the band, or if there is staff illness.  I back-up clinic when needed and travel to Keller/Dallas when required.  I participate in patient education when they are in the office to complete their pre-op paperwork (what surgery will be like, pain expected, etc). 

Part of my responsibilities include coordinating monthly meetings with all department directors within WRHS.  This ensures that every aspect of the patient’s care is met from admission to discharge.  I help to ensure requirements are met/maintained so that our ASMBS COE is  maintained. This includes data collection on all post-op patients at 1 month, 6 months, one year, and yearly thereafter. Participate in monthly nursing orientation classes and introduce all nursing staff to our program and its requirements. 

I have been a nurse since 2005, graduated Summa Cum Laude from both LVN and RN programs, valedictorian of both classes.  Work experience includes family practice clinic, home health, and bariatrics.  I am working to obtain my CBN (Certified Bariatric Nurse) certificate this year.  I too have struggled with weight and the ability to maintain weight loss.  After seeing the success of so many of our patients, I decided to undergo the sleeve gastrectomy in Feb 2012.  I have lost 65lbs to date and am excited with the positive changes that the surgery has enabled me to achieve with my overall health.

I am from Alvord, TX by marriage and have lived there for the past 19 years.  I have two very active sons, 13 and 15, who are involved in football, baseball, and basketball.  I love to watch them in their respective sports, and when the day is done, there isn’t time for many other hobbies.

Dietitians

Amy Gorena, Registered Licensed Dietitian - Dallas/Keller

I work with the patients on their health and nutrition goals.  I have been with My Bariatric Solutions since February 2012 and am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian.  I received my Bachelor of Arts in Biology from UT Austin (go Longhorns), and also received my Master of Science degree in Nutrition from Texas Woman’s University.  Because of my educational background, I truly feel that I am an asset to our patients in helping them through the diet and nutritional changes needed to be successful in their weight loss journey.

I live in Dallas and love trail running in the city.

Patient Care Technicians

Febie Perez, Patient Care Tech - Decatur

I assist the Doctors with each patient during their visit in Decatur.  I help to ensure that any necessary pre-testing is scheduled before surgery as well as any testing after surgery.  This job is very rewarding to me as I have the opportunity of seeing each patient at every stage of their success, whether weight loss or resolution of their obesity related health issues.  I am also responsible for scheduling and coordinating the surgery date with Wise Regional Health System.

I am from Texas and enjoy spending time with my two boys.

 

Colleen Smith, Radiologic Technologist

I am responsible for handling the adjustments for Lap Band patients by using fluoroscopy.  With this ability adjustments can be performed according to each individual patient.  I have been a licensed Radiologic Technologist for five years and am a bariatric patient and therefore, really feel that I associate with our patients progress and questions.

I am from Rhome, TX. I love horseback riding, gardening, and spending time with my family.  

Rich Carrera, Mobile Unit Technician

I make sure the Lap-Band wagon gets to its daily destination and perform front office work related to the patients checking in, rescheduling, taking payments, vitals, etc.  I also see that the wagon is maintained both mechanically and aesthetically.  I was able to move up to this position after being a patient advocate for nine months and really enjoy my personal interaction with the patients.

I am from Hot Springs, Arkansas and enjoy traveling, reading, spending time with family and most of all, my job.

John Krikorian, Exercise Specialist

I am responsible for ensuring that patients meet their fitness goals.  I have a Bachelor’s degree in Health Fitness from Westfield State University. I am also a certified Personal Trainer from Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. I have enjoyed health and fitness from an early age and want to use my knowledge to help bariatric patients understand all aspects of health and fitness. My goal is to ensure that all patients enjoy physical activity. 

I am originally from Massachusetts and love hiking.

Insurance and Financial Specialists

Lillian Brockway, Financial Coordinator

I am the financial specialist for My Bariatric Solutions. Our patients come to us to save their lives, and unfortunately insurance companies don't always cover weight loss procedures. Our program is designed to be a "one stop shop" we offer all the resources needed in order for them to meet their weight loss goals. For our self pay patients, I coordinate all financial resources available to our patients. My main goal is to help all self pay patients finance the procedure of their choice, no matter how challenging that might be.

I understand talking about your personal finances can be very uncomfortable. I have developed a program to make the patients financing process as comfortable as possible. I do not go for the car salesmen approach with our patients. I have researched multiple medical financing companies and handpicked the most appropriate for our patients. With today's economy I understand applying for a loan isn't as easy as it once was. I have developed a program to help even our patients with credit flaws finance the procedure of their choice.

I counsel all self pay patients in our office at the time of their consultation.  I send them home with a financial folder that provides them with all the resources they will need to choose the best possible financing choice for the patient and their family.

Amanda Roberds, Insurance Benefit Specialist

I am responsible for calling the patients insurance company to obtain their benefits.

I have worked in the medical field for 12 years, although I’m new to Bariatrics I’m excited to work at My Bariatric Solutions.

I live in Alvord, Texas, have been married for 14 years and have two girls. I enjoy going to Church, spending time with my family, and reading.

Kristina Toles, Insurance Specialist

I am responsible for submitting patients records to the insurance companies for approval.  I do everything possible to make sure that patients get approved for surgery.  I have worked with insurance companies regarding bariatric surgery for over 6 years.  I am passionate about getting the insurance companies to help the patients’ dreams come true.

I am from Dallas, TX and am currently pursuing a nursing degree. I love spending time with my son and family.

Receptionists

Charla Edwards, Receptionist - Decatur

I am the Decatur office receptionist  and also act as one of the Patient Coordinators on the Bariatric Team.  I assist  in ensuring the patient feels welcome to the practice and continues to return in order to receive top quality health care.  I initialize, review and maintain patient information appropriately in accordance with Practice Policies and Procedures.  I feel like I can really relate to our patients since I too have had the Lap-Band procedure. 

I was born in Fort Worth, married, graduated with Associate Science Degree and love helping people take the first step into a healthier life with weight loss surgery.

Christy Brice, Receptionist - Dallas/Keller

I am responsible for starting your office visit off with a smile.  Sometimes a Doctor visit can be a bit overwhelming and I hope to make your experience a little easier on you and your family.  My goal is to communicate with you while you wait for your designated appoinment time.

I am from Denton.  I am married and have two children and my family is my top priority.

Patient Coordinators/Advocates

Lisa Greene, Supervisor of Patient Coordination

I help to ensure that patients receive the highest level of customer service.  I read and review each patient survey and make it a priority to ensure patients receive an exemplary experience.  As a current patient, I am able to provide that support and work as an advocate on the patients behalf.

I love talking with patients, hearing their testimonies and ultimately seeing hteir lives change for the better.

I was born in Decatur, TX and am pursuing my degree in Psychology from Mid-America Christian University and will graduate in the Spring of 2013!

Cindy Vosburgh, Patient Coordinator

I work with a team of patient advocates and will be one of your initial points of contact when calling My Bariatric Solutions about weight loss surgery.   I enjoy teaching others about the Bariatric process and answering your questions and concerns.  I coordinate the process for patients with the last names starting with M-Z.

I have a BS in Business Administration and a Diploma in Nursing from Iowa Methodist Nursing Program.  I am married and have two grown children.  I was raised an Air Force brat, was an Air Force wife and now live on the family farm.

Judy Patterson, Patient Advocate

I am responsible for answering all incoming calls and questions and scheduling consult and appointments.  I am able to answer many questions our patients may have and add enthusiasm to our team and provide our patients with home town hospitality.. 

I have been a resident of Wise county for over 40 years am married and love spending time with my family.

Jennifer Moon, Patient Advocate

I am responsible for all incoming calls, answering questions, scheduling consults and appointments for the doctors and lap band wagon.  Other responsibilities consist of replying to a number of email inquiries and maintaining patient literature.  I have been with My Bariatric Solutions for over a year and recently became a patient myself.  I am looking forward to a healthier life and being able to help others that are also making the change in their lives as well.

I had obtained my EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification and also studied medical terminology.  I have worked in the medical field off and on for several years.  I would like to possibly continue my education in nursing specializing in the bariatrics.   

I am proud to say that I was born and raised in Fort Worth Texas.  I have been happily married to my husband of 16 years and we have two beautiful and very active children.