We are a uniquely chosen group comprised of experts in the field of bariatric surgery and medical weight loss. The Georgia Coast Surgical staff consists of our surgeon, Dr. Kent, our PracticeAdministrator/ Bariatric Coordinator, two Clinical Psychologists, nurses, and a staff who will work hard to provide “Five Star” service to our patients. We perform our surgery at Southeast Georgia Health Systems, Brunswick Campus which is an American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence and a Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Center of Distinction for Bariatric Surgery. We also perform surgery at our local ambulatory surgery center, Premier Surgery Center. At both facilities we have personnel equipped and skilled to provide the latest and safest techniques and methodologies in caring for Weight Loss Surgery patients. We pride ourselves on providing superior preoperative preparation and postoperative care.
Meet Our Psychologists:
Betsy Ryland, Ph.D
"I want to help you learn the life skills you need to learn for life-long health and weight maintenance.
I have been a therapist and educator for over 25 years, focusing on women’s issues, eating disorders, communication, and strategies for coping with stress. I enjoy seeing motivation and excitement build as you tap into your own energy for creating a healthy life. I see managing your personal stress as essential to staying healthy.
In working with weight-loss surgery patients, I bring a heart-felt sensitivity to obesity issues because of my own struggles with weight management. It is gratifying to use my professional skills and personal experiences to honor the preciousness of each individual who is challenged by weight management. I have conducted psychological evaluations and workshops for over 500 bariatric surgery clients."
Greg Cox, Ph.D
"From the time of my Ph.D. training at University of Louisville, my career has been consistently involved with medically related psychology. I have worked with patients suffering neurological difficulties (strokes, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries), chronic pain and a variety of co-occurring medical disorders. I have extensive experience in psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment, training, and presentation. My work is now focused on Bariatric Psychology, providing you with psychological support to increase your success with weight-loss surgery."
You can read about additional topics at www.obesity2Balance.com and www.GregCoxPhD.com
Meet Our Practice Administrator and Bariatric Coordinator:
Kathleen M. Kent, MSN, RN
"I enjoy working with our patients and seeing their success. With our team approach we cover all aspects of care of the weight loss patient from non-surgical and pre-operative weight loss and monitoring to post-operative care and education."
Kathleen received her BSN from the University of Florida and her MSN from the University of Texas in Arlington. She is a retired Navy Nurse Corps Commander with experience in critical care nursing, surgical nursing, and administration. She has also been a clinical instructor in the nursing program at Coastal Georgia Community College and a school and camp nurse. Kathleen has also successfully completed the on-line training course to become an Allergan "Lap Band Champion". She has been with the practice since 2010.
Meet Our Financial Specialist:
Brooke Davis
Brooke has been with us since May 2011. She is an excellent source of information and can answer any financial questions you may have. Please feel free to contact her for any assistance you may need.
"I love being a part of the GCS team! I have enjoyed getting to know all of our patients and watching their success. I am here to answer any of your insurance questions. MY goal is to help you reach YOUR goal!"
Meet our Insurance Specialist:
Mary Cowden
"Sometimes it takes a lot of patience dealing with insurance companies. I am a mother of 5 so patience is my middle name!"
Mary will work with you and your insurance company to help you achieve a healthy lifestyle. "One of the most important steps you need to do is call your insurance company and review your coverage with an insurance representative. This step can save you valuable time and effort."
Don't hesitate to call her with your questions!
Meet Our Clinical Staff:
Suzanne Morgan, BSN, RN
“I have very much enjoyed being a part of the Georgia Coast Surgical team. It gives me the opportunity to visit with our patients, try to help and offer support to them when needed and celebrate with them in their successes.”
Suzanne came to work with us in 2004 as a part-time nurse. She is a native of Houston, TX and is a graduate of the University of Texas School of Nursing, Health Science Center at Houston. Suzanne has three years of nursing experience in Cardiothoracic Surgery working in CV-ICU and in research. She and her family moved to Glynn County in 2001 where Suzanne has been active with her daughter’s school and in the community.
Mandy Johnson, Medical Assistant
Mandy joined our team in March 2011 and came to us with a wealth of clinical experience in a variety of medical settings. She will efficiently assist you to check in for your appointment. Mandy also coordinates the scheduling of medical testing at the hospital that may be ordered.
Meet our Dietitian:
Jen Nicholson, RD,LD Dietitian
Jen is our licensed and registered Dietitian who has been a part of our team since October 2011. She graduated from the University of North Florida with her Bachelors and Masters in Nutrition. She is a wonderful source of information. Please call her with any questions regarding your diet and nutritional needs.
Meet our Office Coordinator and Massage Therapist:
Andrea Douglas, LMT
Andrea has been our front office coordinator and a valuable member of our team since October of 2010. She is the first person you will meet when you arrive at our office. She graduated from Heritage Institute in February 2011 and has her Georgia state license in Therapeutic Massage.
"I love being a part of this team and enjoy getting to know the patients and following their success. If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask. Come enjoy a massage and renew your muscles! Watch our website for any upcoming massage specials!"