The Sequence weight loss program represents a modern approach to weight management, integrating telehealth, medication, and lifestyle modifications. This article delves into the specifics of the Sequence program, its components, effectiveness, and how it fits into the broader landscape of weight loss solutions.
Introduction to Sequence
Sequence is a comprehensive weight loss program designed to provide ongoing clinical care and medication management, alongside support for navigating the insurance approval process. It emphasizes a holistic approach, recognizing that obesity is a complex, chronic condition that often requires more than just lifestyle changes. The program's approach includes clinical interventions with education, access, care management, community and the integration of a complementary lifestyle program for best results.
Key Components of the Sequence Program
The Sequence program encompasses several key components to support individuals in their weight loss journey:
Medical Consultations and Prescriptions
Sequence offers telehealth consultations with clinicians who can assess a patient's medical history, biology, and insurance coverage to determine the most appropriate medication, if any. The exact medication that your Clinician will prescribe depends on your medical history, biology, and insurance coverage. When appropriate, your Clinician may prescribe GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide (brand name Wegovy), liraglutide (brand name Saxenda), or tirzepatide (brand name Zepbound). When appropriate, your clinician may prescribe other medications with which other members have found success such as Metformin and combination Naltrexone and Bupropion. If your treatment plan isn’t working for you, talk to your WeightWatchers Clinic Care Team about adjustments or alternative plans.
GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide (Wegovy), liraglutide (Saxenda), and tirzepatide (Zepbound), are often prescribed within the Sequence program. These medications work by mimicking the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels and suppress appetite. It's important to note that some GLP-1 medications are experiencing intermittent nationwide shortages.
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Other Medications
In addition to GLP-1 medications, clinicians may prescribe other medications like Metformin and combination Naltrexone and Bupropion, depending on the individual's needs and medical history.
Lifestyle Modification Program
Medical experts recommend pairing these medications with a science-backed lifestyle modification program for long-term weight management and overall health. Sequence integrates a lifestyle modification program that addresses nutrition, behavior change, and physical activity. WeightWatchers’ nutrition and behavior-change program can provide the support needed to help people build livable healthy habits for the long term and manage the dietary-induced side effects often felt while taking chronic weight management medications, such as glucagon-like peptide-1s (GLP-1s). As we build out our clinical weight management pathway, we will be learning and likely tailoring our nutrition program for this distinct member journey.
Insurance Navigation Support
Sequence seamlessly integrates the patient and clinician experience for ongoing, clinical care and medication management while providing high-touch support in navigating the insurance approval process.
Access to Dietitians and Fitness Coaches
Sequence offers access to dietitians and fitness coaches, providing personalized guidance on nutrition and exercise.
Companion App
Sequence provides a companion app to help members track their progress, access resources, and stay connected with their care team.
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The Science Behind the Sequence Program
The Sequence program is grounded in scientific principles and clinical evidence. Pairing behavior change with medically appropriate clinical solutions is more powerful and more sustainable than clinical alone.
The Role of GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications have been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss. Typically, patients on a GLP-1 medication will lose 10-20% of their body weight.
The Importance of Lifestyle Modifications
Medical experts recommend pairing these medications with a science-backed lifestyle modification program for long-term weight management and overall health.
WeightWatchers' Acquisition of Sequence
WeightWatchers has taken a major step into the worlds of telehealth and medication-based obesity treatment, announcing its acquisition of the digital health company Sequence. With Sequence in the fold, WeightWatchers will be able to expand beyond traditional diet and behavior-based regimens for weight loss. Pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement, WW will acquire Sequence in a cash and equity transaction valued at $132 million, inclusive of a minimum of $26 million of Sequence’s cash.
WeightWatchers’ nutrition and behavior-change program can provide the support needed to help people build livable healthy habits for the long term and manage the dietary-induced side effects often felt while taking chronic weight management medications, such as glucagon-like peptide-1s (GLP-1s).
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Cost and Membership Details
Sequence offers a comprehensive weight loss program for a $99 monthly fee, with an initial $49 consultation fee. The monthly membership includes follow-up appointments, access to dietitians and fitness coaches, a companion app, and insurance coordination support.
What's Included in the Monthly Fee
- Follow-up appointments
- Access to a dietitian
Additional Costs
While GLP-1 medications aren't included in this fee, Sequence works with your insurance to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs. Non-GLP-1 "Core" medications are included when using their partner pharmacy.
Success Stories and Testimonials
Sequence members have highlighted the benefits of its service, including support in navigating the insurance approval process and the quality care they receive from clinicians.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
The most common side effects are nausea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal discomfort. Your Care Team will advise you on the best ways to minimize side effects.
Alternatives to Sequence
There are several alternatives to the Sequence program, including traditional weight loss programs, other telehealth-based weight loss services, and medical weight loss clinics.
The Future of Weight Loss Programs
As science advances rapidly, we know there is a significant opportunity to improve outcomes for those using medications.