About Our Chapter
Florida, Puerto Rico & Caribbean Chapter of the ASMBS
The ASMBS (American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery) is a professional organization dedicated to the study and advancement of metabolic and bariatric surgery.
The ASMBS works to advance the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery through education, research, and advocacy. Our organization provides a forum for surgeons, physicians, and allied health professionals to share their knowledge and experience in the field, and to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and techniques.
The ASMBS also sets standards for the practice of metabolic and bariatric surgery and accredits centers that meet those standards. Accredited centers have been shown to have better outcomes and provide safer care for patients.
Overall, the ASMBS plays a vital role in advancing the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery, improving patient outcomes, and promoting public education about obesity and related conditions.
We are the regional chapter that includes Florida, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Islands and primarily network within these regions, however all chapters of the ASMBS are connected when needed.
Our Mission
The mission of the Florida, Puerto Rico & the Caribbean Chapter of ASMBS is to advance the care and treatment of individuals affected by obesity through education, collaboration, and advocacy. We are focused on improving quality of care, ending weight bias and obesity stigma, and providing equitable access for all. Our goal is to foster collaboration among all healthcare professionals, policy makers, and the public to build a comprehensive approach to the care of obesity and to encourage further research into etiology, prevention, and treatment of this complex disease.
Meet Our Officers
Connect with the distinguished officers of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Chapter. Engage in enlightening conversations with these influential leaders, gaining valuable insights into the latest advancements in the field. Build professional relationships and be inspired by their dedication to improving patient care and shaping the future of metabolic and bariatric surgery.
PRESIDENT
Onur Kutlu
MD FACS
president Elect
Fernando Elli
MD FACS FASMBS
PAST PRESIDENT
Christopher DuCoin
MD MPH FACS FASMBS
Secretary/treasurer
Donald Fridley
DO FACOS FASMBS
Member at large region one
Ben Veenstra
MD FACS FASMBS
Member at large region two
Shiva Seetahal
MD FACS FASMBS
Member at large region three
Lisa Ferreira
MD FOMA
Member at large region four
Limaris Barrios
MD
STAR for FL
Joey Jarrard
MD FACS FASMBS
STAR for PR
T. Javier Birriel
MD FACS FASMBS
Founding president
Michel Murr
MD MPH FACS FASMBS
IH president
Gwen Crispell
MSN RN CBN
IH PRESIDENT ELECT
Aileem Schilling
MHSc RD LDN
IH past president
Daniel Baughn
PhD
IH member at large
IH STAR FL/PR
Carah Horn
MBA-HCA BSN RN CBN
IH Nurse member at large
Lourdes Aponte
MSN-ED RN
