Obesity presents a multifaceted and intricate health challenge. Recognizing the unique needs of each individual, the University of Michigan (U-M) Health offers a variety of weight control programs. However, the plethora of options can make it challenging to determine the most suitable path. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of weight loss programs, drawing insights from the University of Michigan Health, UC San Diego Health, and M Health Fairview, while also addressing the broader challenges and considerations in weight management.
U-M Weight Navigation Program
For individuals and their primary care providers seeking guidance, the Weight Navigation Program offers expert assistance from a physician trained in obesity medicine.
Addressing Mental Health and Well-being in Weight Management
Sustained weight loss can be challenging. U-M recognizes the key mental health and well-being challenges in weight management. Factors such as post-pandemic trauma, burnout, social isolation, and workplace stress can significantly impact health care professionals and individuals seeking weight loss solutions.
In one episode, Dr. Elizabeth Harry speaks with leaders from U-M (Dr. Kelcey Stratton), Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience (Dr. Whitney Begeman) and MHealthy (Karen Schmidt) about these issues. They explore how these issues continue to impact health care professionals. The trio of guests share insights on practical tools like micro-breaks, peer support through the COMPASS program and nature-based practices from the NatureRx initiative. They emphasize the power of small, sustainable habits-like five-minute daily check-ins and better sleep hygiene-to boost resilience.
Personalized Weight Loss Plans
Acknowledging that a universal solution does not exist, many programs focus on tailoring nonsurgical weight loss plans to individual needs and preferences. UC San Diego Health, as an academic health system, stays at the forefront of the latest science on weight control. Recognizing that weight loss encompasses more than just numerical values, they prioritize the uniqueness of each patient.
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Specialized Care for Chronic Health Conditions
These programs specialize in assisting individuals who require weight loss to address chronic health conditions. Losing weight demands commitment, and the entire team provides the necessary guidance, information, support, and structure to facilitate adherence.
Comprehensive Consultation and Support
Weight loss programs offer one-on-one consultations with weight loss experts, including physicians and registered dietitians. Patients can consult a lifestyle medicine doctor, who will personalize their care. This program, which requires a referral, includes group classes led by a physician and a health coach. A certified health coach aids in motivation, accountability, and behavioral strategies to promote weight management. The frequency of sessions is determined based on individual needs.
The Role of Hormones and Medical Interventions
Obesity is a complex problem influenced by an intricate set of hormones that regulate weight, making it difficult to lose weight and maintain the loss. Insurance plans may cover some prescription weight loss drugs. However, Medicare often does not cover weight loss medications, even with a supplemental plan. Some insurance providers may cover prescription weight loss medications.
M Physicians’ and M Health Fairview’s Comprehensive Weight Management Program
Gish cares for patients in M Physicians’ and M Health Fairview’s Comprehensive Weight Management Program. This program aims to help patients find sustainable ways of meeting their own weight management goals. When Gish and her team first meet with patients, she says that they often feel like they’re burdened with shame. “They don’t know what to do, and they don’t know where else to go. They think there’s something wrong with them or what they are doing. But there’s one thing about obesity that Gish always wants to be clear: that it isn’t a character flaw, a lack of willpower or about poor decisions. It’s another chronic disease. “I think that is something I had to learn as a patient before I could help others figure that out. That’s what Gish and her patients focus on as they put together medical weight loss treatment plans that could include medicines, sustainable lifestyle or diet changes. “It’s important to know that we’re not the team that will get a patient to their goal and then be done,” she stresses. “We’re with you over your lifetime. “It can be difficult for patients to make it to the clinic for appointments, and they might consider stopping the program. Ultimately, Gish wants to help patients meet their goals and live healthy lives.
Overcoming the Stigma and Shame Associated with Obesity
Many individuals seeking weight management assistance often experience feelings of shame and confusion. Gish emphasizes that obesity is not a character flaw, a lack of willpower, or a result of poor decisions. Instead, it should be recognized as a chronic disease.
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A Lifelong Partnership
Weight management programs emphasize a long-term commitment to patients. They provide ongoing support and guidance, recognizing that weight management is a lifelong journey. Even when patients face challenges, such as difficulty attending appointments, the programs strive to help them achieve their goals and maintain healthy lives.