Losing weight can be a challenging journey, and finding the right support and resources is crucial for success. In New England, a variety of programs and options are available to help individuals achieve their weight loss goals, ranging from medically supervised programs and innovative surgical options to nutrition-focused approaches. This article explores some of the weight loss programs available in New England, providing information to help you make informed decisions about your health.
Nutritional Therapy for Weight Loss and Diabetes Reversal with Health New England and Virta Health
Health New England has partnered with Virta Health to offer a guided nutrition program designed for safe, sustainable weight loss and diabetes reversal. This program is available at no cost to eligible members and their covered dependents who have type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, or are seeking to lose weight.
Personalized Support for Long-Term Success
Virta Health's digital program provides members with personalized health coaching, connected devices (such as a weight scale and blood meter), exclusive nutrition resources and recipes, and dedicated medical guidance. This comprehensive approach focuses on nutrition plans, behavioral change support, and continuous medical supervision to help members achieve long-term weight loss, control blood sugar levels, and potentially reduce or eliminate the need for medications.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Virta program through Health New England, members (18 years and older, including covered dependents) must meet specific criteria:
- Have type 2 diabetes.
- Have prediabetes.
- Have a BMI of 27 or greater (or a BMI of 25 or greater for Medicare Advantage members).
It's important to note that for Commercial plan members, Health New England fully covers the cost of Virta for eligible members and their covered dependents with type 2 diabetes. Coverage is also available for members with a BMI of 27 or greater who are interested in safe and sustainable weight loss. Virta is available to eligible members with prescription drug coverage through Health New England. Some self-funded employer groups might not participate in this program, so it's best to check with your employer. For Medicare Advantage members, Health New England fully covers the cost of Virta for eligible members with type 2 diabetes, as well as those with a BMI of 25 or greater who are interested in safe and sustainable weight loss.
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Real-Life Success Stories
Many individuals have experienced positive results with the Virta program. One Virta member, Ricardo, shared, "The most surprising thing about Virta is how much I enjoy my new way of eating. I've lost 30 pounds and have been able to maintain it, and my life no longer revolves around my diabetes meds."
Medical Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery at Trinity Health Of New England Weight Management
For individuals who find it difficult to lose weight or whose excess weight is affecting their health, Trinity Health Of New England Weight Management offers medical weight loss and bariatric surgery options.
Medical Weight Loss
Trinity Health's medical bariatricians collaborate with registered dietitians to treat obesity using medication and behavioral modifications. This approach focuses on helping patients lose weight without surgery.
Bariatric Surgery
When surgery is the right option, Trinity Health Of New England Weight Management provides comprehensive care through its bariatric surgery team. Their bariatric surgery centers are accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), which sets nationwide standards for bariatric surgery programs. This accreditation signifies a commitment to rigorous standards, safe, high-quality care, and excellent outcomes. The Saint Francis Hospital location has earned the Women’s Choice Award for America’s Best Hospitals for Bariatric Surgery from 2016-2019.
A Network of Regional Bariatric Providers
Trinity Health Of New England Weight Management offers a network of regional bariatric providers who collaborate to provide care and share weight loss and surgery expertise.
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Innovative Surgical Options
Surgeons at Trinity Health Of New England Weight Management utilize minimally invasive techniques and robotic surgery, resulting in smaller scars and shorter recovery times for patients.
Comprehensive Support
Recognizing that weight loss surgery is just one component of a successful weight management journey, Trinity Health Of New England Weight Management offers ongoing support before and after surgery. This support includes healthy eating guidance, counseling, exercise recommendations, and other lifestyle changes to help patients overcome challenges and maintain their health.
Recognition for Excellence
Saint Mary’s Hospital has been recognized as one of the Best Hospitals for Bariatric Surgery by Money.com in partnership with The Leapfrog Group.
MBSAQIP Accreditation
The Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) is a comprehensive, nationwide surgical quality program that aims to ensure the safe and effective performance of metabolic and bariatric surgery. MBSAQIP focuses on surgical outcomes related to weight loss and the treatment of obesity-related diseases, such as diabetes and sleep apnea. Accreditation is achieved through a rigorous review process that evaluates physical resources, human resources, and standards of practice.
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