Saint Agnes named Blue Distinction® Center+ for Bariatric Surgery

Fresno, CA— Saint Agnes is proud to be recognized by Blue Shield of California and Anthem Blue Cross with a Blue Distinction Center+ (BDC+) designation under the Blue Distinction® Centers for Bariatric Surgery program.

This program focuses on improving outcomes and guides members to hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers that meet quality and safety standards for common weight-loss procedures, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and primary laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. BDC+ designated facilities have demonstrated expertise in patient safety, deliver better health outcomes and are more cost-effective for bariatric procedures.

“This recognition exemplifies our commitment to clinical excellence for bariatric surgery,” says Dr. Bessant Parker, Saint Agnes Health Chief Medical Officer. “Our multidisciplinary team works diligently to provide the highest-quality, evidence-based care for patients from their first appointment at the clinic, to surgery day and life after recovery.”

To receive this designation, Saint Agnes participates in the BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) network for Blue Shield of California and Anthem Blue Cross plans and is accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). MBSAQIP sets rigorous safety and quality standards, requires facilities to track outcomes over time and confirms the expertise needed to perform weight-loss surgery safely.

Based on 2026 BDC evaluations for bariatric surgery, on average, BDC+ designated facilities have 37% fewer total (overall) and 49% fewer severe (life-threatening) complications for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and 14% fewer total and 20% fewer severe complications for gastric bypass compared to non-MBSAQIP-accredited facilities. Additionally, BDC+ designated facilities also achieved 25% average cost savings for bariatric procedures compared to all other non-designated facilities.

By meeting these criteria, Saint Agnes demonstrated a strong commitment to higher-quality and affordable care and remains at the forefront of bariatric surgery advancement.

Bariatric care centered around you

Our bariatric program offers personalized care and support to help you work toward your health goals. From exploring weight-loss surgery to life after recovery, our team is here to guide you.

Learn more