Author, Author at Arkansas Heart Hospital

Bariatric Surgery Coverage is Now the Law in Arkansas

Posted on September 29, 2025October 27, 2025 by Author

Arkansas has a new law, called Act 628, that says health insurance must cover bariatric surgery. Starting January 2026, private insurance plans are required to pay for surgery and the care that comes before and after it.

This is big news for people who want to lose weight but have struggled with diets or medicine. It means the help you need is finally within reach.

Why Bariatric Surgery?

Many people try weight-loss drugs or short-term diets. But these often stop working when you stop taking them and the weight usually comes back.

Bariatric surgery is different. It:

Helps you lose weight for life
Can improve or even reverse health problems like diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure
Gives you more energy to do the things you love
Lowers your risk for future health issues

Bariatric Surgery Saves You Money

Being sick is expensive. Many people with obesity spend thousands each year on medicines, doctor visits, and hospital stays. For example:

Insulin and other diabetes drugs
Blood pressure and heart medications
Sleep apnea treatments and supplies

When bariatric surgery improves these conditions, many patients are able to stop or reduce their medications. That means less money spent on prescriptions, less time at the doctor’s office and more money back in your pocket.

Why Choose Our Bariatric & Metabolic Institute?

Not all programs are the same. At our hospital, we give you complete care every step of the way:

Expert surgeons who focus only on bariatric surgery
Personalized plans made just for you
Support teams including dietitians, nurses, and counselors
Proven results with patients across Arkansas
Follow-up care to help you stay on track for years to come

You are never alone on this journey. From your first visit to long after surgery, we are here to guide you, cheer you on and help you succeed.

Take the First Step Today

With Act 628, there is nothing standing in your way. Your insurance will cover it. Your health deserves it.

Cold Weather and Your Heart: How to Stay Safe This Winter

Posted on January 9, 2025 by Author

As temperatures outside begin to drop, you might be focused on cozy sweaters, snowball fights and warm drinks, but it’s also important to consider how cold weather can affect your heart. Frigid temperatures place an extra strain on your cardiovascular system, and for those with heart conditions, the winter months can pose additional risks.

Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure and can make the heart work harder to circulate blood. This added strain may increase the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues, particularly in those with existing heart conditions. Winter conditions can also mean sudden, intense activities—like shoveling snow—which can be risky for anyone with high blood pressure or heart disease.

Here’s what you need to know to stay heart-healthy during the chilly season.

Dress Warmly and Layer Up
Keeping warm is essential to reducing strain on your heart. Layer up with warm clothing, including gloves, a hat and a scarf. Covering your mouth with a scarf can also help warm the air before it enters your lungs, making breathing easier and less taxing on your cardiovascular system.

Tip: Choose moisture-wicking layers to help regulate body temperature and prevent sweating, which can make you colder when outside for extended periods.
Avoid Sudden, Strenuous Activities
Tasks like shoveling snow or carrying heavy objects can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure and heart rate, which could be dangerous in cold weather. If you need to tackle these chores, go slowly and take frequent breaks. Consider asking for help or using a snow blower instead of shoveling by hand.

Quick Tip: Warm up indoors with light stretching to ease your body into physical activity.
Stay Active Safely
While outdoor exercise in winter can be refreshing, be mindful of your limits and take precautions. Aim to keep your activity moderate and avoid overexertion. Indoor activities, such as walking on a treadmill or doing low-impact exercises, are good alternatives when temperatures dip too low.

Pro Tip: If you’re walking outside, wear appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls on icy surfaces, which could strain your heart if you attempt to catch yourself.
Manage Blood Pressure
Monitoring and managing blood pressure is especially important in winter. The cold causes your blood vessels to tighten, increasing your blood pressure. Keeping track of your blood pressure and taking your regular medications as prescribed can help you stay on top of your heart health.

Reminder: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, particularly during colder months, to ensure your heart is staying healthy.
Limit Alcohol Intake
While a warm drink might feel comforting in cold weather, alcohol can actually make you feel colder by widening blood vessels near the skin’s surface. This causes your body to lose heat more quickly and may put additional strain on your heart. Instead, opt for hot, non-alcoholic beverages to keep warm without the added cardiovascular risks.
Know the Signs of Heart Distress
Be familiar with symptoms of heart issues, especially if you’re spending time outdoors in the cold. Signs like chest pain, dizziness, fatigue or shortness of breath should not be ignored. Cold weather can mask some of these symptoms, so stay alert and seek medical attention if needed.

At Arkansas Heart Hospital, we want you to enjoy a safe and heart-healthy winter. By dressing warmly, avoiding strenuous tasks and listening to your body, you can reduce the strain that winter weather puts on your heart. Stay warm, stay safe and keep your heart health a priority this season.

14 Benefits of Cardiac Rehabilitation

Posted on January 8, 2025January 8, 2025 by Author

If you or a loved one is recovering from a heart event, you might feel overwhelmed by the road ahead. Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation (ICR) offers a practical and effective way to rebuild your health and confidence after a cardiac event. Arkansas Heart Hospital’s ICR program, Strong Hearts, is a comprehensive program designed to help patients recover and thrive after heart-related events or surgeries. By combining tailored exercise, nutrition counseling, stress management and education, Strong Hearts addresses your heart health holistically.

14 Life-Changing Benefits of Strong Hearts Cardiac Rehab

The benefits of intensive cardiac rehabilitation go beyond the surface. It’s about feeling better, living longer, and enjoying life to the fullest. Here are some of the transformative changes you can expect:

Stronger Heart: Tailored exercises help your heart pump more efficiently, improving overall cardiovascular fitness by 15% to 25%.
Lower Blood Pressure: Say goodbye to those high numbers. ICR can reduce systolic blood pressure by an average of 10 mmHg.
Cholesterol Control: Total cholesterol levels drop by 10% to 20%, giving your arteries some much-needed relief.
Weight Management: With personalized nutrition plans, patients often lose 3% to 5% of their body weight and keep it off.
Smoke-Free Living: Smokers in ICR are 50% more likely to quit compared to those who don’t participate.
Sustained Habits: You’ll leave the program equipped with tools and strategies to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle for years to come.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Up to 20% of cardiac patients experience depression, but ICR reduces symptoms by 30% to 40%, helping you find joy again.
Improved Mood and Quality of Life: Patients report feeling more energetic, capable, and optimistic about the future.
Lower Risk: ICR reduces the risk of hospital readmissions for heart issues by 25%. That means fewer setbacks and more time enjoying life.
Longer Lifespan: With a 20% to 25% lower overall mortality rate, ICR is a powerful ally in your fight for longevity.
Peer Support: Engaging with others on similar journeys fosters a sense of community and mutual encouragement.
Accountability: Regular check-ins help participants stay motivated and committed to their goals.
Participation in cardiac rehabilitation reduces the risk of death from heart disease by 26% to 31%.
Patients in ICR save an average of $4,950 per year due to fewer hospital visits and complications.

Your Heart Deserves the Best

At Arkansas Heart Hospital, our Strong Hearts ICR program is designed with your success in mind. From state-of-the-art facilities to compassionate care teams, every aspect is geared toward helping you achieve your health goals. Whether you’re bouncing back from a heart attack or managing chronic heart disease, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Take the First Step Today

Your journey to a stronger heart and healthier life begins with a single step. Contact Arkansas Heart Hospital to learn more about our Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation program. Together, we’ll help you reclaim your health.

Bariatric Surgery: How It Boosts Your Metabolism and Helps with Weight Loss

Posted on December 30, 2024December 30, 2024 by Author

If you’ve been working hard to lose weight with diet and exercise but haven’t seen the results you hoped for, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with stubborn weight that just won’t come off, no matter how many calories they count or hours they spend at the gym. This is where bariatric surgery can make a life-changing difference.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure that helps people lose weight by changing the size or function of their stomach and digestive system. Think of it as a reset for your body—a way to make it easier to manage hunger and get your metabolism working more effectively.

The Metabolism Connection

Your metabolism is like your body’s engine. It determines how much energy you burn throughout the day, even when you’re resting. When you’re carrying extra weight, your metabolism can slow down, making it harder to burn calories and lose weight. Bariatric surgery can give your metabolism the boost it needs in a few key ways:

A Smaller Appetite:
After surgery, your stomach becomes smaller, so you feel full after eating less food. Imagine trading in a big gas tank for a smaller one—your body simply doesn’t need as much fuel (food) to keep going.
Better Hormonal Balance:
Bariatric surgery also changes the hormones that control hunger and fullness. For example, it lowers the levels of a hormone called ghrelin, which is like your hunger alarm. With less ghrelin, you’re less likely to feel hungry all the time.
Improved Energy Use:
After surgery, your body becomes more efficient at using the food you eat for energy. It’s like upgrading your car engine so it runs better on less fuel. This helps your body burn stored fat for energy, leading to weight loss.

More Than Just a Tool

While bariatric surgery can be incredibly effective, it’s not magic. You’ll still need to eat healthy foods, stay active and follow your doctor’s advice to see the best results. But for many people, surgery is the jumpstart they need to break through the plateau and start a healthier life.

Is It Right for You?

No two journeys are the same, and at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital, we provide personalized care designed for your unique needs. Whether you’re exploring surgical options or seeking guidance on lifestyle changes, we’re here to help you reach your goals and transform your life.

Protect Your Heart This Winter: Why the Holidays Can Be a Dangerous Time for Cardiac Health

Posted on December 17, 2024December 17, 2024 by Author

Heart Attack during Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for cozy sweaters, warm meals, and making memories with family and friends. But while we’re busy celebrating, it’s easy to forget that December and January are also the riskiest months for heart health. In fact, studies show that heart-related deaths spike by 5% during the holiday season, with Christmas and New Year’s Day ranking among the deadliest days for cardiac events. At Arkansas Heart, we want to make sure you stay safe and healthy so you can enjoy the season to its fullest. Whether you need urgent care or just want to check in on your heart health, we’ve got you covered.

Why Is Your Heart Under Extra Pressure in Winter?

It’s not just the weather—there are a lot of sneaky factors this time of year that can take a toll on your heart:

Chilly Temperatures: You know that feeling when you step outside and the cold air hits your face? That same cold causes your blood vessels to tighten, which raises your blood pressure and makes your heart work harder. For people with underlying heart conditions, this can be dangerous.
Holiday Stress: As much as we love the holidays, they can be stressful. Between the long to-do lists, travel plans, and packed schedules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Stress raises blood pressure and heart rate—a combination that’s tough on your heart.
Indulging a Little Too Much: Who doesn’t love a holiday feast? Unfortunately, salty foods, sugary treats, and one-too-many cocktails can lead to higher blood pressure, weight gain, and added strain on your heart. Studies have found that overeating during the holidays may increase the risk of heart attacks by up to 33%.
Skipping Doctor’s Visits: It’s easy to push things like heart screenings or checkups to the bottom of your list during the holiday rush. But conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol don’t take a break just because you’re busy.
Being Less Active: When it’s cold outside, staying on the couch with a blanket sounds much better than going for a walk. But being less active increases your risk for heart disease.

Heart Disease Doesn’t Always Give You a Warning

Here’s the tricky part: heart disease is often a silent killer. You might feel fine, even if something serious is going on. Many people don’t realize they have heart disease until a major event, like a heart attack, happens.

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s especially important to be proactive:

Family history of heart disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Smoking
Being overweight
Not getting enough exercise

Don’t wait until something feels wrong—catching heart issues early can save your life.

Be Proactive: Schedule a Heart Screening

A simple heart screening can give you peace of mind and help you stay ahead of any problems. At Arkansas Heart Hospital, we offer quick, advanced screenings that can spot heart issues early so you can enjoy life worry-free.

The holidays are the perfect time to give yourself (and your loved ones) the gift of health. If you haven’t had your heart checked in a while, schedule a screening today.

Know the Signs of a Heart Emergency

Even with the best planning, emergencies can happen. If you or someone you love experiences any of these signs, don’t wait—call 911 and head straight to Arkansas Heart Hospital:

Chest pain or pressure
Shortness of breath
Pain that spreads to the arm, jaw, neck, or back
Feeling nauseous, dizzy, or breaking into a cold sweat

Every minute counts during a heart attack, and we’re ready 24/7 to provide life-saving care when you need it most.

We’re Here for Your Heart

At Arkansas Heart Hospital, your heart health matters to us, not just during the holidays but all year long. Whether you need emergency care, a screening, or advice to live a healthier life, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Take care of your heart this winter. Schedule a heart screening or trust us for expert care when it matters most. Your health can’t wait—and neither should you.

Celebrate World Heart Day

Posted on September 18, 2023September 20, 2023 by Author

Arkansas Heart Hospital and Bishop Park Partner for World Heart Day Challenge

Public invited to walk a heart-shaped route to promote a healthy lifestyle

Community members are invited to walk along a heart-shaped path on Friday, Sept. 29, from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Bishop Park, 6401 Boone Road. The walk marks World Heart Day, intended to raise awareness for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death among Arkansans. The event is organized by the Arkansas Heart Hospital and Bryant’s Bishop Park. The community is invited to join anytime over the course of the event.

Event Highlights Include:

Food trucks will be on hand.
The Bryant Boys and Girls Club will participate in the heart-shaped route.
The Arkansas Heart Hospital will offer free blood pressure screenings to those that participate.
Hospital experts will also be on hand to explain the importance of staying active and ways to stay heart healthy.

Gastric bypass helps Anthony lose 145 pounds, get back to nature

Posted on March 20, 2023April 7, 2023 by Author

Battling life-threatening health conditions, Anthony chose bariatric surgery to save his life and get back to enjoying the outdoors.

CHOOSING TO LIVE BY LOSING WEIGHT

I have suffered with weight issues my whole life. I tried every diet under the sun, but none of them worked. I was battling high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea, acid reflux and non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis, and physically I could not do the things I loved.

I looked at my health conditions and knew I had to do something if I wanted to live. After researching bariatric surgery and talking to people who had it, I knew that it was right for me.

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY EXPERIENCE

My bariatric surgeon and director of BMI, Dr. Samuel Bledsoe, was amazing, kind, polite, informative and helpful when deciding which surgery to have. He wanted what was best for me in the future.

I underwent gastric bypass surgery in March 2022. I will never forget that Dr. Bledsoe prayed with me right before surgery; being a man of great faith was very important to me.

My surgery experience was great. I couldn’t have asked for better staff; they were helpful and kind. They also were very helpful to my wife, making sure she had everything she needed while there. Encore Medical Center was clean and very accommodating.

Recovery was quicker than I thought it would be; I was walking a few hours after surgery. I got to go home earlier than planned because I had done so well. I was back to work within a week, but I could have gone back a few days earlier.

SUPPORT FOR LIFE

In one year, I lost 145 pounds. I can walk without having to sit down every few minutes, hike, enjoy the outdoors, which is very important to me. I never want to sit down! My ultimate goals are to be healthy, enjoy life and enjoy my hobbies.

One of the most important things you need before and after this surgery is a lot of support. And the BMI program is nothing but support. They make sure you have the tools to make your journey a success. They are always available to answer questions or concerns and lead me in the right direction.

If you’re considering surgery, do it! I’m not going to sugarcoat it. It can be hard, but if you follow the plan and do the work, it will be the best decision and investment you’ll ever make. The only regret I have is not doing it sooner.

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Weight loss surgery is proven to resolve type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, liver cirrhosis and more. If you’re battling these conditions, our bariatric surgery experts are here to help you regain your health. Start your journey at bmi.arheart.com.

Learn about breaking weight loss plateaus.

Gary Exchanges Yo-Yo Dieting for Running Shoes After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Posted on March 17, 2023April 7, 2023 by Author

Gastric sleeve surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) helped Gary lose 150 pounds, prevent health conditions and increase his love for running.

Finding an Alternative to Yo-Yo Dieting

I have struggled with obesity for most of my adult life. I have tried multiple diet and exercise plans and had some success losing weight, but I always gained it back. In February of 2010, I stepped on a digital scale at home, and it read ‘ERROR.’ When I stepped on the scale at my doctor’s office, it read 330 pounds. I knew I had to take action.

I began running to lose weight. In September 2013, I ran my first half marathon, and in February 2014, I ran my first marathon. While training for my second marathon, I hit 189 pounds.

Shortly after, several things in life changed in a short period of time. I didn’t take the time to exercise and started back to my bad eating habits. I got back up to 250 pounds quickly. I tried several times after that to change my diet and start exercising, even working my way back to a half marathon in December of 2018. But I just felt like I was fighting a losing battle.

With a history of diabetes, heart disease and hypertension on both sides of my family, I felt it was just a matter of time before I developed these conditions.

Taking Action with Weight Loss Surgery

I decided to act by searching for ‘Arkansas Heart Hospital weight loss surgery.’ I followed the steps on bmi.arheart.com to see if my insurance would cover it and if I was a candidate for surgery. The following week I received a call from the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI) to set up an appointment.

In the spring of 2021, I met with Dr. J.J. Tucker, my bariatric surgeon. At this point, I was not sure if I wanted to go through with the surgery. But Dr. Tucker said something that really stuck with me.

If a person was diagnosed with cancer, they wouldn’t wait until it had progressed to stage four to seek treatment. He said obesity is a disease just like any other disease and needs to be treated as such. Deciding to have surgery should not make us feel like we have failed or given up.

I knew then that this was the step I needed to take. Since gastric sleeve surgery, I’ve lost around 150 pounds and feel amazing! I no longer have issues with indigestion or reflux. I have learned what to eat and what to stay away from. My wife and I are both healthier and more active than we have ever been.

Lifetime Tools from BMI

I view my gastric sleeve as a tool; like any other tool, it has a specific purpose. This ‘tool’ came with an instruction manual, my ‘bariatric bible binder,’ and amazing ‘customer support’ from the great team at BMI. The online patient support group serves as ‘customer reviews’ and ‘frequently asked questions.’

After surgery, I’ve completed in many marathons, including Little Rock, RussVegas, St. Jude’s and Mississippi. My ultimate goal is to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

None of this would have been possible without Dr. Tucker, the BMI team and the tool of bariatric surgery.

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From insurance approvals to emotional and physical wellness, our weight loss surgery experts are here for you every step of your weight loss and health journey. Take the first step to a second chance at life at bmi.arheart.com.

Learn about bariatric surgery options.

Brittany celebrates life without diabetes, hypertension after gastric sleeve surgery

Posted on March 17, 2023January 25, 2024 by Author

Tired of sitting on the sidelines, Brittany changed the course of her life with the help of weight loss surgery at the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute (BMI).

Taking Charge of her Health through Weight Loss Surgery

I have struggled with my weight since childhood and health conditions since age 20. I was tired all the time, had poor eating habits, and my legs and feet hurt a lot. Even just walking a short distance was taxing on my body.

I decided to have gastric sleeve surgery at the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute (BMI) to help me have better control over my health and weight and a better quality of life.

Impeccable Experience

Dr. Samuel Bledsoe, my bariatric surgeon, gave the most wonderful and caring experience I have had in a long time. Having a doctor pray with me before this life-changing surgery meant the world to me. He made my fears go away before surgery, and I am grateful for him.

My entire weight loss surgery experience at Arkansas Heart Hospital was impeccable. After surgery, my nurses were so patient, kind and professional. Jackie, CNA, kindly pushed me to drink the fluids I needed and to get moving so I could heal properly. The staff and doctors were available to me if I needed anything.

I will tell anyone considering bariatric surgery to go to BMI at Arkansas Heart Hospital. I have successfully recommended two of my family members including my father, and six of my coworkers and friends.

A Whole New Life

Life now is how I always thought it would be and more. My health is better than it’s ever been. I’m no longer diabetic; my A1C went from 10.8 to 5.2. I no longer have high blood pressure and my symptoms from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are so much better.

I can move easier, and I have more energy. I enjoy traveling without being exhausted and getting in my backyard to play with my dog, Bandit.

Going into surgery, I set three non-scale goals: sit cross-legged, cross my legs in a chair and fly without a seatbelt extender. I have accomplished them all!

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If excess weight is keeping you on the sideline of life, our personalized attention and innovative surgical options can get you back in the game and can even be a cure for type 2 diabetes. Take the first step to a healthier you at bmi.arheart.com.

Do I qualify for bariatric surgery?

Bariatric and Metabolic Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital Expands Services to Russellville and Texarkana

Posted on January 4, 2023October 15, 2024 by Author

Arkansas Heart Hospital (AHH) announced it has expanded its nationally accredited bariatric services to its clinics in Russellville, Ark., and Texarkana, Texas. Dr. JJ Tucker will begin seeing patients in Texarkana on the second Tuesday of the month starting Feb. 9. Both physicians will provide patient consultations and follow-up appointments. All surgeries will be performed at the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute at Encore Medical Center in Bryant.

“We are grateful to the doctors for their willingness to expand their practices and bring their expertise to the patients of Russellville, Texarkana and beyond,” said Dr. Bruce Murphy, CEO of Arkansas Heart Hospital. “With our Bariatric and Metabolic Institute’s recent accreditation as a Center of Excellence, this is the perfect time to expand these services and allow more Arkansans and Texans to receive the transformative health benefits of weight loss surgery.”

To celebrate the new markets, the physicians will welcome patients to their respective clinics for a Weight Loss Surgery Informational Seminar and Clinic Open House. In addition to the opportunity to hear from and ask the physician questions, each session will include bariatric-friendly food tastings, games, giveaways and testimonials by local patients who underwent bariatric surgery.

Dr. Tucker is a bariatric surgeon, board-certified by the American Board of Surgery. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. He completed a fellowship in bariatrics, robotics and minimally invasive surgery at Lousiana State University School of Medicine in Baton Rouge, La, and a residency in general surgery at Wellspan York Hospital in York, Pa. He completed medical school at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine.