Distinctive Expertise

Paul Kemmeter, MD, FACS - Medical Director - Bariatric Surgery

Having performed over 1,900 bariatric surgeries, Dr. Paul Kemmeter is one of West Michigan's leading bariatric surgeons. He is also one of less than 50 U.S. surgeons experienced in the laparoscopic Duodenal Switch, the most effective bariatric surgery option available. Dr. Kemmenter performs all of his surgeries laparoscopically using mini-incisions that help patients heal faster and produce less scarring.

As seen on WOOD TV 8's "Ask the Expert," he is affectionately called a "rock star" by many of his thankful patients. His approachable, sincere and caring bed side manner coupled with his passion to make a positive difference in people's lives makes Dr. Paul Kemmeter a desirable choice when looking for a bariatric surgeon.

In addition to his private practice with Grand Health Partners, he serves as the Associate Program Director of the GRMERC/MSU General Surgery residency program and as Assistant Professor of Surgery for the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Dr. Kemmeter is a Fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Randal Baker, MD, FACS

Dr. Baker is a native Grand Rapids resident who received his B.A. from Calvin College. He earned his M.D. from Albany Medical College of New York. Dr. Baker is a board-certified surgeon and has performed more than 2,500 successful bariatric procedures. He is also an Assistant Professor of Surgery for the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and a past President of the Michigan Bariatric Society.

James A. Foote, MD, FACS

Dr. Foote is a third generation general surgeon. He received his B.A. from Hope College and his M.D. from Wayne State University. He completed his Surgery Residency at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in 2002, during which he did a one year Fellowship in Surgical Critical Care. He is an Assistant Professor of Surgery for the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.

Known as one of the leading Grand Rapids weight loss doctors, Dr. Foote has performed over 2,400 bariatric operations, including more than 600 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy procedures. He is recognized as a leading bariatric surgeon who provides educational training on the sleeve gastrectomy to other surgeons from around the country. His patients speak highly of his bedside manner and skill.

Dr. Foote also performs general surgery procedures including acute care surgeries and advanced laparoscopy including ventral and inguinal hernia surgeries, gallbladder surgery, appendectomies and other emergency surgeries.

Along with his wife Susan, Dr. Foote has four children.

Derek Nagle, MD, FACS

Dr. Nagle received his Bachelor of Science degree from North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota and his M.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine. He completed his Surgery Residency in Grand Rapids through the GR-Medical Education and Research Center, with a special focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques and bariatric surgery.

Dr. Nagle’s interest in Laparoscopic Bariatric procedures was further developed during the last two years of his training as he worked directly with Doctors Baker, Kemmeter and Foote to enhance these skills. The most common bariatric surgeries he performs are the Gastric Band, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Duodenal Switch. Throughout his career, he has also helped to educate residents and medical students as an Associate Professor for the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.

Dr. Nagle is an avid outdoorsman and accomplished pilot with his commercial, twin-engine, seaplane, glider and helicopter ratings. He also enjoys running, hockey, hunting, scuba diving and spending time with his wife and young daughter.