Meet Karen Coyne, CRNP

Karen Coyne, CRNP, is a nurse practitioner and part of the Penn Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program team.

It’s also likely she’s one of the first people on the team to meet new patients when they start their weight-loss journey at Penn.

“That first visit can be two to three hours long,” says Karen. “I tell patients to bring a book! The visit is very thorough, and patients meet a nurse practitioner, dietitian and surgeon one the same day.”

At that visit, Karen learns more about patients embarking on their journey.

“I discuss with them their medical history, habits and any other conditions they may have that may affect their surgery,” she says.

“A lot of the people we meet don't know what they are getting in to, or they have a lot of questions,” says Karen. “We inform patients a lot about the procedure, testing required, and what will be needed of them throughout the process. We try to make solid recommendations and suggestions to help prepare them for weight-loss success.”

What do you like best about what you do?

It’s gratifying to see significant co-morbidities and disabilities improve after losing a significant amount of weight with weight-loss surgery. I enjoy interacting with patients and having the opportunity to educate patients.

What is your favorite healthy food?

I like multi-grain bread toasted with peanut butter for breakfast.

Favorite tips for weight loss and/or keeping off weight?

• Small, frequent sensible snacks throughout the say to keep hunger in check
• Incorporating as much activity as possible into everyday routines

Best advice for weight-loss?

Listen to the team.

More about Karen

Favorite food: Asian
Favorite exercise: Walking
Favorite sports team: I don’t follow sports.
Last book you read? South of Broad by Pat Conroy
When I get down time I like to….chill.

Let Penn Help You Lose Weight For Good

Penn can help you lose weight.

Learn about medical weight loss in Philadelphia, and the Penn Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Program at a free information session about weight-loss surgery in Philadelphia. There, you will hear about your weight-loss surgery options, and how Penn can help you lose weight and get healthy for good.

Register for a free information session today.