Surgery ban for the obese and smokers 'won't affect people needing vasectomy'
Why are the CCG doing this?
The CCG says they want to "encourage and empower patients to take greater responsibility for their lifestyle choices."
They say "the point of referral to a surgical speciality is an opportune moment for people to take responsibility for their health and wellbeing."
Who is affected?
Anyone with a BMI of over 35 or is an active smoker
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe CCG estimates there will be around 1,000 less operations at four hospitals, Hull Royal Infirmary, Castle Hill Hospital, Goole Hospital, and Scarborough Hospital where patients from Bridlington are sent.
What kind of operations will it affect?
Hip and knee, plastic surgery, urology and vascular surgery
What are the exclusions?
Any urgent surgery; diagnostic referrals for cancer; patients with severe mental health illness
Anyone with a BMI of over 35 - but a waist measurement of less than 94cms in males or 80cms in females
Children under 18 or the elderly
Ophthamology, vasectomy, and people who use E-cigs
What happens in an exceptional case?
The patient could be referred to the Individual Funding Request Panel
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdCriteria include "uncontrollable pain" and a worsening mental condition
Where will people be referred for help?
The CCG is spending £200,000 on weight management programmes run at 10 East Riding leisure centres
People taking part will get a free leisure centre pass and parking inbetween sessions run by health trainers.
They may choose to go to Weight Watchers or Slimming World, or not take any formal support at all
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdWhat happens after six months if people haven't stopped smoking or lost weight?
The CCG says: "If they don't reach their target weight loss or stop smoking after six months they will still be put forward for surgery."