Healthcare providers are investing massive amounts of money in new equipment and building modifications to accommodate a growing population of obese patients.
One hospital in St. Louis determined that on any given day, about one-third of its patients weighed 350 pounds or more.
Barnes-Jewish Hospital is now replacing beds and wheelchairs, widening doorways, and buying mechanical hoists to make sure its enormous clientele are treated in a dignified manner.
The hospital is also trying to reduce staff injuries, which often occur when doctors and nurses try to lift or move obese patients.
"Three-hundred-fifty pounds is nowhere near what we need for beds now," said Art Kidrow, a nurse manager. "We've had some 650-pounders up here."
Meanwhile, in the great state of Nevada, emergency services provider American Medical Response now offers a $250,000 extra-wide ambulance for fat people. It can carry loads up to 1,600 pounds.
"If you don't think it's needed, all you have to do is look around," said Bob Leinbach, spokesperson for Clark County. "Americans are heavier."
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