Mary Washington Healthcare offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss, encompassing both surgical and medical programs tailored to individual needs. Recognizing that successful weight loss extends beyond the physical, the Mary Washington Weight Loss Center focuses on addressing core behaviors and thought patterns that may impede progress. The center, guided by a team of professionals, equips individuals with practical tools and skills to safely increase physical activity, discover enjoyable fitness routines, and implement dietary changes for optimal nutrition.
Accredited Surgical Weight Loss Program
Mary Washington Hospital's surgical weight loss program holds accreditation from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). This accreditation signifies that the program has undergone rigorous peer evaluation and meets nationally recognized bariatric surgical standards. According to Denis Halmi, MD, Bariatric Surgeon and Medical Director for the Surgical Weight Loss program at Mary Washington Hospital, this designation makes them an Accredited Center of Weight Loss Surgery.
MBSAQIP Accreditation: Ensuring Quality and Safety
The MBSAQIP accreditation ensures that Mary Washington Hospital maintains specific physical resources, human resources, and standards of practice necessary for safe and effective bariatric surgery. This accreditation not only promotes uniform standard benchmarks but also supports continuous quality improvement. As an MBSAQIP-accredited hospital, Mary Washington Hospital's Bariatric Surgery Program is also an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, demonstrating a commitment to consistently improving procedures and approaches.
The Role of Bariatric Surgery
Surgical weight loss, also known as bariatric surgery, can be a valuable tool for achieving a healthier life. In partnership with a physician, the Mary Washington Weight Loss Center team, including counselors, nutritionists, and exercise professionals, provides guidance and support throughout the transformation process.
Medical Weight Loss Program: "Moving Forward"
For individuals needing to lose more than 50 pounds, Mary Washington Weight Loss Center offers a non-surgical program called "Moving Forward." This program provides patients with the necessary tools and medical support to begin their weight loss journey. The "Moving Forward" team includes a physician assistant, registered dietitian, and a behavioral health coach/exercise physiologist.
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Strategies for Success
The "Moving Forward" team teaches patients successful strategies for weight loss and maintenance, including:
- Education: Providing comprehensive knowledge about nutrition, exercise, and behavior modification.
- Meal Planning: Developing personalized meal plans tailored to individual needs and preferences.
- Exercise Routines: Creating enjoyable and sustainable exercise routines.
- Behavior Modification: Addressing core behaviors and thought patterns that may hinder progress.
A Personalized Approach to Weight Loss
The Mary Washington Weight Loss Center emphasizes the importance of a personalized approach, tailoring plans to each individual's unique needs. Whether patients opt for surgical or medical weight loss, the goal is to create lasting lifestyle changes. Halmi advises against setting a specific goal weight, encouraging a focus on sustainable habits rather than a "race-like mentality."
The Weight Loss Team
The weight loss team at Mary Washington Weight Loss Center comprises dedicated professionals, including physician assistants, nurse practitioners, dieticians, behavioral health specialists, and exercise coaches. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their weight loss journey.
Eligibility and Insurance Coverage
The center maintains a flexible and accommodating approach to eligibility criteria, with no weight limit for patients seeking help. The team works closely with insurance companies to navigate the complexities of coverage.
New Weight Loss Medications: GLP-1 Drugs
The center offers insight into the newest weight loss medications, specifically GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound. Originally used to control blood sugar in diabetic patients, these medications have been found effective in promoting weight loss by controlling hunger and cravings. Halmi notes that securing insurance coverage for these medications can be challenging, particularly for patients without diabetes. While some commercial insurances may cover the cost, Medicare typically does not.
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Potential Side Effects
Like any medication, GLP-1 drugs come with potential side effects, the most common being nausea. Other gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and constipation can also occur. Injectable medications are generally more effective than pills like phentermine, with patients potentially losing up to twice as much weight.
The Importance of Lifestyle Changes
Halmi and Heins emphasize the importance of combining these medications with lifestyle changes for optimal and sustainable results.
Support Groups
The center offers weekly support groups for all weight loss patients, recognizing that individuals often require support beyond what they can achieve on their own.
Alternative Options: Ronald H. Johnson, M.D.
While Mary Washington Weight Loss Programs offer comprehensive care, individuals seeking alternative options in Fredericksburg may consider the medical offices of Ronald H. Johnson, M.D. Dr. Johnson, a member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians for 15 years, provides personalized medical weight loss programs.
Dr. Johnson's Approach
Dr. Johnson personally examines patients during their first visit, which includes an EKG, physical exam, body fat composition analysis, a personalized menu plan, a B12 injection, and a new patient starter packet. Most patients are started on medication during this initial visit. Follow-up visits occur every two weeks, during which Dr. Johnson reviews progress, monitors vital signs, and addresses any concerns.
Read also: The Unforgettable Journey of Mary DeAngelis
Emphasis on Medical Supervision
Dr. Johnson emphasizes the importance of being seen by a medical doctor trained in bariatrics for safe and effective weight loss. He cautions against "Physician Supervised" programs where patients may not actually see a medical doctor.
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