Frankly, it may be safe to assume that nearly 80-85% of the patients Dr. Fermelia serves would likely benefit from a relationship with a therapist, counselor or psychologist. It is even more likely that many of Dr. Fermelia’s patients have co-existing conditions, many of which could be effectivey treated in an outpatient behavioral health setting. Surgery is always offered if you need it, but caring for the whole person has been one of our underpinnings and something we collectively strive for as an interdisciplinary team.
You may ask yourself "Why would a surgeon be part of a behavioral health practice?"
The answer is simple.....INTEGRATED CARE.
Heartland Surgical is located at Pine Lake Behavioral Health providing exceptional surgical services ranging from general surgery to specialized bariatric care. Rick Fermelia, MD has been performing surgical procedures for nearly 25 years in Wyoming and Nebraska and would love an opportunity to serve you. He has extensive knowledge and expertise in various surgical areas including but not limited to:
- Alimentary tract (esophagus and related organs)
- Abdomen and its contents (gall bladder, appendix, stomach, intestines, etc.)
- Breasts, skin, and other soft tissue
- Endocrine system
- Bariatrics
- Surgical critical care
- Trauma
General surgeons such as Dr. Fermelia can be found practicing many types of surgery, and the broad-based nature of his education and training makes it possible for him to perform many procedures in the performance of his patient’s needs. Dr. Fermelia does have a particular interest and passion for bariatric work, but he also enjoys the variety that makes up the day of a true general surgeon therefore he practices a wide assortment of procedures. A general surgeon is a highly skilled surgeon, and the word “general” should not be confused with a lack of specific training. It is more appropriate to think of the general surgeon as a specialist in commonly performed procedures, such as appendectomies and other procedures. While having a surgical specialty requires more training in a specific type of surgery, the general surgeon is a very important part of the healthcare team and is essential in the treatment of common illnesses that can be cured with surgery.