Preoperative psychological assessment for bariatric surgery in the Brazilian public health system

Introduction The Preoperative Psychological Assessment of Bariatric Surgery and Metabolic (PP-BSM) aims to detect psychopathologies before the procedure, facilitating interventions and lifestyle changes. Objectives Describing and analyzing the psychological aspects and tools used for pre-bariatric surgery psychological evaluation in the Brazilian Public Health System. Methods Descriptive cross-sectional study. The convenience sample was composed by psychologists of the bariatric surgery and metabolic teams in the public health system in a region in the South of Brazil. Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire administered via telephone survey, focusing on PP-BSM. Results There was consensus regarding the areas to be assessed: cognition, emotion, social support, and psychiatric comorbidities. Variation was found in the protocols and instruments used for PP-BSM, with each hospital using its own protocol. Semi-structured clinical interviews, along with self-reported scales and questionnaires, were used by most psychologists. Conclusions Although the psychological aspects assessed are aligned with current Brazilian guidelines, there is a lack of either standardized protocols among services or specific instruments for bariatric surgery candidates. Providing adequate tools and training professionals in their use may contribute to increasing safety and long-term positive surgical outcomes. Disclosure of Interest None Declared