As the year winds down, we often reflect on how we spent the months prior. Musing over where the time went, our accomplishments, shortcomings and what we hope to experience on this next trip around the sun. For many, prioritizing self-care and how we treat our bodies remains a consistent category for growth. If you’re envisioning weight loss-related changes in the future, Dr. Brian LaMar, Parkview Weight Management, suggests considering a structured weight management program.
What are some common roadblocks people face while trying to lose weight?
The most common phrase I hear is "I know what to do, but I just can't figure out how to do it.” Most of us indeed know what we should be doing, but for whatever reason, we are not. Time, work, school, family life, pain, other health conditions or simply not knowing where to start are just some of the challenges that people encounter.
What can patients expect during their initial consultation with Weight Management?
We try to meet the patient where they are when developing their plan and goals. We don't all start at the same place or have the same concerns, so we do our best to create a realistic weight loss plan for everyone.
The initial consultation involves an in-depth discussion with our medical providers to formulate an individualized plan specific to the patient’s needs. The provider will review details such as their medical, social and family history. This conversation also includes discussing their weight history and previous weight loss attempts to better understand how we can help.
What does a typical Weight Management program look like?
There is no "typical" or set program. Some patients may benefit from all that we offer, while others may need only one or two components to reach their goal.
In general, a program can consist of:
-
Individualized movement objectives
-
Lifestyle counseling
-
Nutrition education
During our initial visits and follow-up appointments, we assess whether additional resources are needed and make referrals when patients could benefit. We also utilize outside resources, such as personal training or physical therapy referrals. Additionally, patients can choose to see a registered dietitian without seeing one of our medical providers.
Beyond the initial appointment, what ongoing support can patients look forward to?
Commitment levels vary by individual. Some people prefer frequent check-ins with their care team to stay on track, while others do well with spaced-out visits. At a minimum, we see our patients in the office every three months. However, patients can arrange more frequent visits or separate appointments for weight checks or body composition analysis. Dietitian and mental health therapy appointments can support accountability between appointments. We also encourage communication between visits, especially if questions or concerns arise. This allows us to make timely recommendations or adjustments to meet patients’ evolving needs.
What are the significant differences between weight management programming and medication-assisted weight management alone?
A weight management program offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss. While medication may be part of some patients’ plans, our primary focus is on long-term lifestyle changes.
In most cases, when patients take a medication without changing their daily habits, their weight returns once they discontinue the drug. By working with our weight management team, we ensure our patients have the resources they need to make sustainable diet and lifestyle changes.
Because obesity is a complex disease that often co-occurs with other conditions, access to a multidisciplinary team helps patients maintain weight loss and manage long-term health. We aim to create an environment that encourages our patients to take ownership of their weight loss journey. With commitment, hard work and patience, the majority of our patients do well with reaching and exceeding their goals.
Ready to make a change?
Parkview Weight Management programming supports patients with a BMI greater than 30 or a BMI greater than 27 with a weight-related comorbidity. Whether you’re newly navigating weight loss or looking to refocus your efforts, we can help. To get started, call our office at 260-425-6390 to schedule a new patient appointment.