Weight Loss Surgery Support Team

Dana Zamot – Program Coordinator

Dana first came to Jacksonville Weight Loss Center as a patient while working in a local hospital. She underwent LAP-BAND® surgery in July of 2006. To date she has lost over 80 pounds and has exceeded her weight loss goals. As a gastric band patient, Dana can speak to patients and potential patients first hand about her experiences. Dana is available to prospective patients for free consultations about gastric banding surgery.

Dana also coordinates the practice’s educational seminars.  She served as master of ceremonies for Khaliah Ali’s Jacksonville speaking engagement about her experiences after undergoing LAP-BAND® surgery.  Dana also works closely with the other members of the team to provide advice and information regarding coverage and criteria for pre-approval under specific health benefit plans.

Sari Newman Bernstein, Ph.D.

Dr. Sari Bernstein bases her profession on a commitment to meeting her patients’ needs. She has a strong reputation in the medical community, with close relationships with area pediatricians, physicians and Jacksonville Weight Loss Center.

Dr. Bernstein is a licensed psychologist (PY 6209) with over 12 years of experience; her focus is on your psychological well-being. She obtained her B.A. in 1989 from the State University of New York, Stony Brook in Psychology. She then went on to receive her Master of Arts specializing in Psychology and Master of Education specializing in Vocational Rehabilitation from Columbia University, New York City in 1992. In 1996, she completed her internship at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City in Neuropsychology and Rehabilitation. Dr. Bernstein then went on to receive her Ph.D. in 1997 from Yeshiva University in New York City, specializing in Clinical Psychology. Her Post-Doctoral Training was completed at the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC in the area of Rehabilitation and Neuropsychology.

Dr. Sari Bernstein is a valuable member of the Jacksonville Weight Loss Center team. Her expertise as a licensed clinical psychologist is a key element to your successful weight loss journey and to addressing any related emotional and psychological needs.

Jody Debord – Weight Loss Counselor

Jody has been instrumental in developing and growing Jacksonville Weight Loss Center’s program. Jody has a Bachelors in Computer Science and joined us after gaining extensive experience working for Metabolic Research as well as A New Weigh weight loss programs. Jody works closely with the physicians in the pre-operative stages and conducts the physician supervised weight loss program visits required by many insurance companies. Jody also provides support, guidance and counseling to patients at all stages of post-operative care. Finally, Jody is the clinical coordinator of our FDA adolescent Lap-Band® study and coordinates all of the patients’ visits as well as providing support and guidance to the patients and their families.

Jaime Hildreth – Surgery Coordinator

Jaime is a Jacksonville native. She joined the practice in May 2010. She has brought with her over 10 years of surgery scheduling experience and has been an integral part of our team at Jacksonville Surgical Associates to ensure a smooth and efficient process to obtain your surgery authorization and scheduling surgery. Jaime’s responsibilities include working with the insurance company to obtain surgery preauthorization, scheduling pre-op appointments and surgery.

Jaime’s compassion and dedication to our patients puts you in good hands throughout your process.

Valerie Gallahan – Bariatric Coordinator, Valdosta, Georgia

Val was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. She moved across the country on a volleyball scholarship to play for Valdosta State University, where she received a Bachelors degree in Exercise Physiology. Val continued her education and earned a Masters degree in Public Administration in hopes of working in public health. Upon graduation she had the opportunity to work as the Bariatric Program Coordinator at SMITH Northview Hospital until the program was discontinued.

Val will be assisting patients in navigating through their weight loss journey; ensuring that all of their necessary paperwork and insurance requirements are met as well as providing support and guidance. She is excited about helping people regain their health. She most enjoys the long-term relationships she forms with patients. In her leisure time, Val spends time with her new husband, either as a duo on the volleyball court or as a spectator when he coaches high school football, basketball, and soccer.