Starting medical weight-management care is an important step toward improving your health and well-being.
I want your first visit to be informative, comfortable, and focused on you. Here’s what you can expect:
Your first consultation
Expect your first visit to take between 60 – 75 minutes. This is a longer appointment so that I have enough time to get to know you, understand your health history, and learn about your goals. During your appointment, I will ask questions to understand the factors that may be affecting your health and weight, then work with you to create an individualized treatment plan.
We may discuss:
- Your medical and weight history
- Medical issues that run in your family
- Current medications and supplements
- Previous weight-loss efforts
- Eating patterns and nutrition
- Physical activity and exercise
- Sleep, stress, and other lifestyle factors
- Emotional well-being and mental health
- Your personal health goals
I will also conduct a full physical exam, and obtain a body composition assessment. This information helps me develop a more complete picture of your health and determine which treatment options may be appropriate for you.
My comprehensive approach to medical weight management
I do not believe medical weight management should follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Many factors can contribute to weight gain or make weight loss more difficult, including medical conditions, hormonal shifts, medications, sleep, stress, nutrition, physical activity, and mental health.
That is why I consider the whole picture when developing your care plan. Depending on your individual needs, we may discuss the following areas:
FDA Approved Medications
Prescription weight-management medications may be appropriate for some patients. If medication is a potential option for you, I will explain the available choices, potential benefits, risks, side effects, costs, and how medication may fit into your overall treatment plan.
Medication is a powerful tool, but it is not a replacement for comprehensive care. When I prescribe medication, I combine it with appropriate nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral strategies to help support your overall health.
Nutrition counseling
I will ask about your typical eating patterns, food preferences, schedule, challenges, lifestyle, and goals. Rather than emphasizing a short-term or overly restrictive diet, I focus on practical nutrition strategies that support your health and can be sustained over time.
Exercise and physical activity
I will personalize physical activity recommendations based on your current abilities, health conditions, interests, and lifestyle. Whether you are already active or need help getting started, we will discuss realistic ways to safely increase physical activity and support your goals.
Behavioral and psychosocial support
Weight management can be affected by stress, sleep, emotional eating, mood, body image, and other psychosocial factors. I may ask about these areas during your visit to better understand your experience and identify helpful sources of support.
What to bring to your first appointment
Before your visit, please complete the new patient forms. This gives me an overview of your medical history, and identifies your priorities, allowing us to make the best use of our time together.
Please also bring:
- Copies of laboratory results from the past year, if available
- A current list of medications and supplements
- Relevant medical records
- A list of questions or concerns you would like to discuss
You do not need to fast before your first medical weight-management appointment. If needed, I may order laboratory testing after your visit to further evaluate your health and guide your care.
Leaving your first visit with a clear plan
By the end of your first appointment, I will have a better understanding of your overall health, medical history, and goals. Together, we will establish individualized next steps, which may include recommendations related to:
- Weight-management medications
- Nutrition
- Exercise and physical activity
- Behavioral support
- Laboratory testing
- Other areas of your health
Most importantly, you will leave with a clear plan and a better understanding of how I can support you moving forward.
You do not have to manage your weight alone
Seeking professional help with weight management is a proactive step toward better health. Throughout the process, I will treat you with respect, compassion, and without judgment.
My comprehensive approach to medical weight management is designed to address your individual needs—not simply focus on a number on the scale. If you are ready to learn more about your options, schedule your first medical weight-management visit today.