Michigan, like much of the nation, faces a significant challenge with obesity. With 1 in 3 residents considered obese, the state grapples with the health and economic consequences of this widespread condition. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, and medical weight loss programs have emerged as a valuable tool for many individuals. This article explores the landscape of medical weight loss in Michigan, examining its costs, available options, and the factors influencing its accessibility.
The Obesity Crisis in Michigan
Michigan is obese, unhealthy and dying young. In Michigan, 1 in 3 residents is considered obese - in line with much of the rest of the nation. And the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that 42% of adults and 20% of children and adolescents were obese.
The Rise of Medical Weight Loss Programs
Losing weight can be tough, and sometimes diet and exercise alone just aren't enough. Medical weight loss offers a science-backed approach to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Medical weight loss is a comprehensive weight management program supervised by healthcare professionals. It may include a combination of diet plans, exercise regimens, behavioral therapy, medication, and sometimes medical procedures to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight. These programs are tailored to each person’s unique needs and may be recommended for those who have struggled to lose weight through conventional methods.
Who is Medical Weight Loss For?
Medical weight loss is typically recommended for:
- Individuals who are significantly overweight or obese.
- Those who have been unable to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
- People with medical conditions related to obesity (e.g., type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea).
- Individuals seeking a medically supervised program to help ensure safe and effective weight loss.
A healthcare provider will assess your overall health and determine whether a medical weight loss program is appropriate for you.
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Components of a Medical Weight Loss Program
A medical weight loss program typically includes:
- Nutritional counseling: Personalized diet plans tailored to your specific needs, preferences, and goals.
- Exercise plans: A fitness regimen that suits your fitness level and promotes fat loss while maintaining muscle mass.
- Behavioral therapy: Counseling to address emotional eating, food triggers, and lifestyle habits that affect weight.
- Weight loss medications: FDA-approved prescription medications may be prescribed to help reduce appetite, boost metabolism, or prevent fat absorption.
- Bariatric procedures: In some cases, more invasive treatments such as weight loss surgery (e.g., gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy) may be considered for individuals with severe obesity.
Available Medications
There are several FDA-approved medications that may be prescribed as part of a medical weight loss program, including:
- Appetite suppressants: These drugs reduce hunger and can help with portion control (e.g., Phentermine, Contrave).
- Fat absorption inhibitors: Medications like Orlistat (Alli) block the absorption of some dietary fat.
- Metabolic boosters: Medications that help boost metabolism and promote fat burning (e.g., Qsymia).
- GLP-1 receptor agonists: Drugs like Semaglutide (Wegovy) help regulate appetite and blood sugar levels, promoting weight loss.
Medications are usually prescribed when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to achieve weight loss and may be used alongside lifestyle changes for better results.
The Role of GLP-1 Agonist Drugs
The drugs are known as GLP-1 agonist drugs, because they mimic the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1, which helps people feel full. GLP-1 receptors signal your brain that you’re full and keep you satiated for longer stretches. Initially approved for diabetes management, these medications are now recognized for their weight loss benefits. The drugs are the reflection of the growing understanding of weight gain, said Dr. Doctors now understand that the ability to control or lose weight is as much about “signaling pathways” that differ from person to person, among other things.
Examples of GLP-1 medications include Semaglutide (Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Zepbound). Some programs, like the one offered at The Bengtson Center, use compounded Tirzepatide + Niacinamide, an injectable that helps control hunger, reduce food intake, and improve metabolic health.
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Benefits of Achieving a Healthy Weight
Achieving a healthy weight can transform your life in numerous ways. Not only does it reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer, but it also significantly improves metabolic health. When you reach a healthy weight, you'll likely notice a boost in energy levels and a reduction in fatigue, making daily activities more enjoyable. Some patients have found mental health improvements, with many people experiencing reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Improved sleep quality and duration are additional perks contributing to overall well-being.
Finding Medical Weight Loss Programs in Michigan
Several medical weight loss clinics and programs operate in Michigan. Examples include:
- The Bengtson Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery (Grand Rapids): Offers a personalized, medically guided weight loss program featuring compounded Tirzepatide + Niacinamide.
- Life IV Weight Loss: Provides a comprehensive and personalized weight loss program that includes medications like Wegovy® (Semaglutide) and Zepbound® (Tirzepatide), as well as oral options.
- Grand Medical Specialists: Combines medical expertise with cutting-edge weight loss medications, offering same-day telehealth appointments.
- Allure Medical: Offers the "Slim Shot" (Semaglutide) program with telehealth consultations available for Michigan residents.
- U-M Health Weight Management Program: A 2-year, highly structured program that includes a very-low calorie diet and lifestyle intervention.
- West Michigan Plastic Surgery: Offers weekly weight loss injections (GLP-1 medications) monitored by Dr. Scott Holley.
- New Vista Wellness Program: a comprehensive, medically supervised weight loss program designed with your health and success in mind.
The Cost of Medical Weight Loss
The cost of medical weight loss varies depending on the program, the treatments involved (such as medications or procedures), and the clinic you choose. Typically, programs may cost anywhere from $200 to $300 per month. Medical weight loss costs depend on the treatment plan.
Factors Influencing Cost:
- Medications: The type and dosage of medications prescribed can significantly impact the overall cost. GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Zepbound are relatively expensive.
- Program Length: Longer programs with more frequent check-ins and support services may have higher costs.
- Individualization: Programs that offer highly personalized plans tailored to individual needs may be more expensive than standardized programs.
- Location: Costs may vary depending on the location of the clinic and the expertise of the healthcare providers.
Insurance Coverage:
Some health insurance plans may cover certain aspects of medical weight loss, especially if the individual has health conditions related to obesity (such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea). However, coverage can vary widely depending on the plan and location. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan.
For several years, Medicaid in Michigan has covered weight loss drugs for people with Type 2 diabetes. Last year, Michigan’s Medicaid program covered the drugs for more than 67,000 patients at a cost of just more than $393 million. Insurers cover the drugs for people with Type 2 diabetes, but consumers might not be covered for weight loss only. Blue Cross covers the drugs in some circumstances.
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Potential Challenges and Considerations
Weight loss drugs are “amazingly effective” but - without restrictions - are too expensive to give to everyone who could benefit, said Dr. “We as health plans, we as clinicians, we as doctors, we as patients, we as the community - we’re figuring out: Where do these drugs now fit in our whole weight-conscious regimen?” said Dr.
Side Effects:
Some common side effects patients may experience while taking these medications include nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. Adjusting your dosage often improves these side effects. Side effects are usually mild and may include nausea or constipation.
Weight Regain:
Research shows that most patients regain some weight after stopping GLP-1 treatment. Stopping treatment may result in weight regain.
Prior Authorization and Coverage Denials:
“You think you’re doing the right thing and then it’s denied,” said Vondale, 60, who works at a Grand Rapids-based nonprofit.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
A key part of Sharon Bracey’s weight loss has been a drastic change in her diet, as well as the weight loss drug Ozempic. To maximize results, lifestyle changes such as mindful eating, regular physical activity, and behavioral counseling are recommended alongside compounded Tirzepatide + Niacinamide.
Success Stories
Thirty pounds down, the 65-year-old Southfield teacher is one of countless Michiganders now on new weight loss drugs. Sharon Bracey, 65, here with her grandson at her home in Southfield, lost nearly 30 pounds on Ozempic. “It’s the miracle I never thought I’d see in my lifetime,” said radio show host Lucy Ann Lance, who said she lost 120 pounds in less than a year on Wegovy. “I lost 45 pounds in six months with Dr. Campbell’s program.