FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Insurance covers consultations with our providers with your usual specialist copay. You may need a referral.

Anti-obesity treatment options may include medications. Coverage for these medications varies widely, and you can check your insurance’s drug formulary by calling the number on the back of your card.

Some patients may benefit from medication or supplements as a part of their personalized plan, depending on their health and weight loss needs. Any medications or supplements prescribed will be carefully chosen and closely monitored by our medical team.

Every patient responds differently to a weight loss program. It is important to match the patient to the right plan. It is well proven that a 5-10 % weight loss over 3 to 6 months is a reasonable starting point. A successful program combines an adequate nutrition plan, a goal-specific physical activity plan and behavioral modifications. It is important to stress that when pursuing weight loss, there is no quick fix.

Yes, you will be provided with a customized nutrition and exercise plan designed to support your weight loss goals. These plans are realistic, sustainable, and tailored to your lifestyle. We also provide ongoing support to help you stay on track.

While body mass index (BMI) is a commonly used tool to assess weight-related health risks, it is not a perfect measure. Other factors, such as waist circumference, body fat percentage, ethnic background, and existing medical conditions, are also important considerations. BMI is calculated as a ratio of weight to height, and a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is classified as overweight, while a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obesity. However, using multiple measurements provides a more comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s health risk.

Slow and steady wins the marathon when it comes down to weight loss. Weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds per week while pursuing a supervised weight loss program that includes goal oriented physical activity, specific nutritional modifications, medication support and behavioral interventions is in most cases advised. In order to achieve a long term weight loss, it needs to be sustainable and not too restrictive. Weight loss plan strategies ultimately need to alter the balance between food intake and calories burned. The implementation of behavioral modifications will promote changes in behaviors that ultimately influence body weight and the motivation to continue to pursue weight loss.

The cause of obesity is defined by many factors. Some of those factors include genetics, cultural factors, environmental factors, behavioral factors, sleep disruptions, metabolic medical conditions, medications, not getting enough physical activity or increased food intake.

Obesity is becoming a world-wide pandemic because of changes in the way we live. Many of our behaviors, jobs and activities have become less physically demanding and the time assigned for physical activity and sleep has been minimized. For example, we tend to drive more and walk less. Also we spend many more hours sitting in front of screens than ever before. In addition, our habits and beliefs around food have also changed.

A medical provider may consider weight loss surgery if your body mass index (BMI) is above 35 with risk factors, or about 40 with no risk factors. Doctors also take into consideration your medical history and your attempts to lose weight. In most cases, non-surgical weight loss is recommended prior to surgery to reduce the risk of any weight related surgical intervention.

Feel free to ask your provider during your visit.