WEIGHTLOSS CENTERS

People who need help losing weight can benefit from the services of medical weight loss centers. Medical weight loss centers include non-surgical weight management programs, surgical (bariatric) services, or a combination of both.

Questions to ask when choosing a medical weight loss clinic:
What are the program fees?

Are there any additional fees associated with the program, such as diagnostic tests or lab fees, medications, dietary supplements, or special foods?

Does moving to a maintenance plan require additional fees?

Does the staff consist of licensed doctors who understand weight loss?

What types of eating plans are available? Is the choice of a specific eating plan made by the patient or the health care professional?

Are the weight loss goals determined by patients or health care professionals?

How many people enroll in the program? What percentage of individuals who enroll actually complete the program?

What is the average weight loss among patients who complete the program?

What percentage of patients regain the lost weight after participating in the program?

What type of weight loss results can I expect?

What happens to patients who do not lose weight?

What are the potential risks or side effects of participating in the program?

Will a physician evaluate my health status before I begin the program? Will a physician monitor my health and progress during the program? Will this physician communicate with my primary care doctor?

 

Does the program offer behavior modification (lifestyle change) classes? Are these sessions led by a licensed psychologist or other mental health professional? Are classes provided in individual sessions or group formats?

What are the requirements for monitoring progress in the program?
Weekly weigh-ins?
Food diaries?
Mandatory group session?

Does the program include education about meal planning, portion size, and recommended calorie intake?

Is purchasing special foods, drugs, or supplements required for the program?
Can I use my own food if I do not want to buy special foods?

Is exercise and activity planning and instruction part of the program?

Can the program be adapted to individual lifestyles and preferences?

Is bariatric surgery an option at this center? What types of surgical procedures are performed? Where do the surgeries take place?

Does the program provide continued services for patients who have reached their goal weight and are ready to maintain the results?

Does the program have the option of telephone or email support when patients need assistance and cannot get to the center?