Losing weight can be a challenging journey, and many individuals seek medical assistance to achieve their health goals. Hers is a telehealth platform that provides access to various weight loss treatments, including prescription medications, nutrition support, and technological tools. This article delves into the eligibility requirements for HERS weight loss treatments, providing a detailed overview of the factors considered when determining candidacy.
Understanding HERS Weight Loss Program
Weight Loss by Hers is a holistic program designed to assist individuals in managing their weight through a combination of medical prescriptions, nutrition support, meal replacement options, and activity goals. The program aims to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs and preferences.
Weight Loss Options Offered by HERS
HERS offers a range of weight loss options, including:
- GLP-1 Injections: Doctor-trusted treatment options, including daily or weekly injections.
- Meal Replacements: A mix of favorite bar and shake flavors loaded with protein.
- Oral Medication Kits: Custom oral medication kits, taken daily.
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for weight loss treatments at Hers, a state-licensed provider reviews each patient's health history, weight loss goals, and unique needs. This evaluation determines whether the individual is a suitable candidate for the prescribed treatment.
Semaglutide Eligibility
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®. To qualify for semaglutide for weight loss, individuals typically need to meet the following criteria:
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- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity)
- BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) with at least one weight-related health condition
Weight-Related Conditions
Weight-related conditions that may qualify an individual for semaglutide treatment include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Dyslipidemia (which includes high cholesterol)
- Sleep apnea
- Heart disease
Specific Semaglutide Medications
- Ozempic®: FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes treatment but may be prescribed off-label for weight loss at a healthcare provider's discretion.
- Wegovy®: FDA-approved for weight loss. It helps reduce appetite and slows down food movement in the stomach.
- Rybelsus®: FDA-approved to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. It is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss.
- Compounded Semaglutide: A healthcare provider may prescribe compounded semaglutide if you have a unique need that brand-name versions of the drug can’t meet. Since compounded semaglutide* isn’t FDA-approved, there are no official eligibility criteria.
Contraindications for Semaglutide
Even if an individual meets the BMI requirements, semaglutide may not be suitable for everyone. It is essential to inform the healthcare provider about any existing health conditions or medications. Semaglutide is generally not recommended for individuals with:
- A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- Allergy to any of the ingredients in semaglutide drugs
- Taking another semaglutide medication or glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist
Individuals with the following health problems should also exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider:
- Type 2 diabetes and a history of diabetic retinopathy
- Depression, suicidal thoughts, or any other mental health issue
- Problems with kidneys, gallbladder, or pancreas
Liraglutide Eligibility
Liraglutide is the active ingredient in Saxenda® and Victoza®. It is a daily injection that can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels and people with obesity lose weight. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, liraglutide triggers the release of insulin in the body to lower blood sugar levels. It also slows gastric emptying, helping you feel fuller, while targeting hunger hormones.
Tirzepatide Eligibility (Mounjaro® and Zepbound®)
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes. Zepbound® has the same active ingredient as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), but it’s FDA-approved for weight management. It works similarly to GLP-1 drugs but also targets another receptor, gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP).
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Oral Medication Kit Eligibility
HERS offers personalized oral medication kits containing a combination of ingredients tailored to the individual's body. A healthcare provider will review the patient's health history, goals, and medical history to determine eligibility for an oral medication kit. These kits may include:
- Bupropion
- Metformin
- Topiramate
- Vitamin B12
- Naltrexone
Considerations for Oral Medication Kits
All medications carry the risk of side effects. It is crucial to discuss potential side effects with the healthcare provider. For example, metformin can cause nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, but these symptoms tend to be mild and subside over time.
The HERS Process: Getting Started
- Online Assessment: Fill out the online intake form and answer questions about medical history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle habits.
- Provider Evaluation: A licensed healthcare provider will review the answers and determine eligibility for weight loss medications.
- Prescription and Treatment Plan: If eligible, the provider will prescribe medication and a personalized weight loss program.
- Medication Shipped to Your Door: Medication is shipped directly to the patient's door in temperature-controlled packaging.
- Ongoing Care: Unlimited access to the care team is available through the HERS app for questions, adjustments, and support.
Cost and Insurance
HERS is designed to provide accessible healthcare at an affordable cost, without requiring insurance. Prices vary depending on the subscription or treatment. However, individuals with a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) can use those funds to cover some of the costs.
Important Considerations
- Compounded Drug Products: It is important to note that compounded drug products are not FDA-approved and have not been evaluated for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
- Individual Results May Vary: The timeline for weight loss results may vary from person to person.
- Long-Term Use: Medication is a long-term weight loss treatment and not meant for short-term use. Always consult with a licensed medical provider before stopping treatment.
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