Piedmont Columbus Regional Northside named a Blue Distinction Center for bariatric surgery

Columbus, Ga. (August 20, 2026) - Piedmont Columbus Regional Northside is the only hospital in the Chattahoochee Valley area to be named a Blue Distinction Center by Blue Cross Blue Shield for its metabolic bariatric surgery program.

“We are honored and excited to receive this recognition for our safe, effective treatment options,” said bariatric surgeon Ken Copperwheat, D.O. “All employees with a State Health Benefit Plan, regardless of if they live in Auburn, Columbus, LaGrange, Phenix City or somewhere in between, can receive bariatric surgery as part of their benefits because of Piedmont achieving this distinction.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates about 100 million adults, over 40%, in the United States are affected by obesity and that number continues to increase.

“Obesity increases risks of morbidity and mortality because of the diseases and conditions commonly associated with it, like type II diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer, among other health risks,” bariatric surgeon Jeremy Bryner, D.O. explains. “Bariatric surgery has proven to be effective in the reduction of comorbid conditions related to obesity.”

Visit Piedmont.org/pcBariatricsSeminar to take the first step on your weight-loss journey and watch a convenient online seminar about bariatric surgery. The seminar provides helpful information on obesity, weight loss management and surgery options. Upon completion of the video, a member of the Piedmont Columbus bariatrics office staff will contact you to schedule the first appointment.