[Role of general practioners in the follow-up of bariatric surgery in the province of Liege].

This paper is concerned with the place and role of general practitioners in the follow-up of patients submitted to bariatric surgery in the province of Liège. The results of the analysis were compared with clinical practice guidelines published by the French Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS). Fifteen interviews were conducted with GPs who follow up operated patients. The results highlight the GPs' wish to fully participate in the follow-up of those patients. Their medical supervision is centered on the HAS clinical practice guidelines, taking into account the intake deficiencies as well as the patient's psychological experience. However, some aspects are disregarded, mainly because of a lack of theoretical knowledge (some biological parameters, pregnancy and contraception). The short consultation time along with the poor communication with the hospital multidisciplinary team were mentioned as obstacles to a good quality follow-up. Progress is still needed to reach the clinical practice guidelines. However, there is a wish to better collaborate. Organising coordination meetings between professionals along with an early implication of the GP - even before surgery - represent possible solutions.