St. Joseph's Area Health Services Bariatric Center


At my consult appointment, I was amazed at the knowledge that was shared about weight loss surgery. Dr. Smith and his team were more than knowledgable and able to answer any questions I had. I came with three typed pages of questions and got all of them answered. I was very impressed with the courteous staff. I was a bit nervous at first about the hospital being older, but after my surgery and hospital stay, I would recommend it to anyone. There are no words to express the gratitude I feel towards Dr. Smith, his team, and the staff at St. Joseph's. My entire experience was positive as far as my care and surgery went.

I think Dr Smith and all his staff are excellent at what they do! They provide so much support and knowledge to their patients and they are genuine and caring!rnrnThey made a tough surgery so much easier by being the way they are~ amazing!!

The surgeon i had was amazing, he told me step by step of what was going to happen before surgery, so i was informed about everything before having the surgery. The staff was absolutely amazing, you couldn't ask for a better nursing staff then the ones i had. They went above and beyond my expectations. Aftercare was so simple they let you know what is expected and what you should or shouldn't do as far as lifting, or eating anything. They also give you a book about what you are allowed to eat for the different stages. I would rate my overall experience as far as before/aftercare and my hospital stay a perfect 10 i couldn't ask for anything more easy. I had no complications and no pain at all(yes you saw that, no pain).

I had Dr. Smith for a previous surgery. He also did my son's hernia surgeries. Dr. Smith always explained what he would be doing and what the risks may be. With his years of experience though, I have always had complete faith in his surgical competence. He has inspired my son to pursue a medical career, taking time to talk to him about different procedures, etc. I would highly recommend him to everyone for any type of surgery. His staff during my gastric bypass were outstanding in their care of me.

My first impression of Dr. Smith is that he speaks softly and was a bit hard to understand at first. But after a couple of minutes talking to him I could understand him okay. He also seemed very caring and he was able to answer every question I threw at him, including if I could still chew gum! The staff are so great. Everyone of them! Some of them have also had this procedure done and they are more than willing to share their experiences with you. The aftercare is great. They are always happy to take your phone calls, are so encouraging and excited for the patient. I feel like they truly love to see my success and are proud of me! Dr. Smith and his PA Sandy Jones were very open and honest about all risks but very reassuring as well. I give Dr. Smith and his support team (and I do mean team) an 11! Everything about them all was above and beyond, including the hospital staff.

Dr. Smith was very pleasent when I met him, I had read all the other posts about him so I kind of knew what to expect. He was softspoken but not to the extent I had expected. I have only met with him once so far. The staff at the Park Rapids clinic have been great! I feel very comfortable working with all of them.

Dr. Smith is one of the best.... quiet but knows his business. He is the Roux en y of MN. His PA ,Sandy is a cheerleader for him and the patient. Love them both.... they know you each time they see you, even without your patient records!

wonderful surgeon, I can't say anything negative about him well maybe he's a little quiet. I would recommend him to anyone who asked. He was informative addressed any concerns I had prior to the surgery. If I have had any questions for him or his staff since the day of my surgery they are very easy to get a hold of, even left a message at the hospital on a Saturday morning and he called me back by that afternoon.

I met Dr. Smith two years ago when my wife had RNY. I feel he is a truley honest and caring man, one who takes pride in his work and strives to stay on the top of his game. He is a very soft spoken man and not one of many words, but willing to answer and discuss anything. Sandy Jones is a great woman, she is Dr. Smith's PA-C, very thourough and easy to talk with. The office staff are awesome, ready willing and able to help out no matter what the question or problem. I will add more after surgery.