After several years of absence, the Lebanese Society of Family Medicine (LSFM) successfully revived its annual congress under the theme Empowering Family Medicine: Bridging Care and Innovations. The event welcomed international speakers and featured cutting-edge discussions on the latest advancements in medicine and surgery.
Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Antoine Aoun, Director of COPTER, who delivered a presentation on the comprehensive management of patients following bariatric (weight loss) surgery. Dr. Aoun emphasized that the indications for bariatric surgery are strict and well-defined, highlighting the importance of patient selection based on evidence-based guidelines. More importantly, he underscored that post-surgical care is a lifelong commitment rather than a short-term follow-up. He stressed the necessity of continuous monitoring, appropriate supplementation, and regular medical testing to prevent complications and ensure optimal health outcomes.
Dr. Aoun also advocated for a multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing that successful patient management requires collaboration among physicians, dietitians, physical trainers, psychotherapists, and other specialists as needed. His presentation reinforced the significance of long-term, patient-centered care in bariatric surgery, aligning with COPTER’s mission to promote sustainable and holistic health and anti-obesity interventions.
The congress also addressed key primary care topics related to family health, including child and adolescent health, women’s health, and mental health across all age groups. Over three days, experts engaged in discussions on pressing healthcare issues, furthering LSFM’s commitment to advancing family medicine.
The Lebanese Society of Family Medicine is a non-profit medical society and the national association of family doctors in Lebanon. It plays a vital role in setting the standards for quality primary care and establishing guidelines for the practice of family medicine within the Lebanese community.