Arizona State Chapter

Incorporated May 2009

Mission Statement

The Arizona Chapter of the ASMBS was incorporated as a non-profit corporation in May 2009.  The specific purpose of the corporation is to focus on understanding obesity-related health conditions and advance the art and science of bariatric surgery by:

  • The encouragement of its members to pursue investigations both in the clinic and laboratory
  • The interchange of ideas, information, and experience pertaining to bariatric surgery
  • The establishment and promotion of guidelines for bariatric patient selection and care
  • The advancement of outcome studies and quality assurance initiatives aimed at enhancing perioperative and long-term patient care, while minimizing risks and improving overall patient safety
  • The development and promotion of educational programs for bariatric healthcare professionals and patients

Executive Officers

President: David Podkameni, MD
Vice President: James A. Madura, MD FASMBS
Secretary: Christine Lovato, MD FACS FASMBS
Treasurer: Maria Brown, MD
Executive Director: Flavia C. Soto, MD FACS FASMBS
STAR (State Access to Care Representative): Christine Lovato, MD FACS FASMBS
IH STAR (Integrated Health Section State Access to Care Representative): Open

Contact

Sandra Eckelberry
1920 N Higley Road
Suite 306
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Phone: 480-543-2934
Fax: 480-543-2672

Chapter Meetings & Updates

Support Groups

  • Banner Gateway Medical Center (Gilbert)
  • Banner Estrella Medical Center (Phoenix)
  • Banner University Medical Center (Phoenix)

*All free support groups, no need to have had Bariatric surgery within Arizona.

Advocacy Information