Naveen Ballem, MD LLC, a New Jersey bariatric center for advanced surgical weight loss, is now affiliated with New York Bariatric Group (NYBG). NYBG, the leading bariatric practice in the country with offices throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, has affiliated with Naveen Ballem, MD LLC, an independent bariatric surgery practice. The arrangement expands the NYBG service locations in northern New Jersey with two additional offices. NYBG now has three locations in New Jersey in Glen Ridge, Clinton, and Wayne.

Providence St. Joseph Health announced Wednesday it has acquired HMR (Health Management Resources), an established provider of clinically proven weight-loss programs, from Merck. The addition of a comprehensive weight management service to Providence’s suite of health services is the latest example of the non-profit health organization’s efforts to improve the health and well-being of patients and communities. According to HMR President Len Tacconi, HMR’s specialty is using behavior-change techniques to help patients who have significant weight to lose learn the lifestyle skills that matter most for better health and quality of life. A positive relationship between Providence and HMR has existed for several years. HMR operates clinics inside three Providence facilities, while Providence refers its caregivers to HMR for weight management support and care as part of its employee wellness program.