Medically Supervised Weight Loss FAQ
Our medically supervised weight loss program is an evidenced based whole foods approach to weight loss. As a patient, you will have the opportunity to work with our team of health care professionals to help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health. A nurse practitioner will perform a thorough evaluation which includes a physical examination and a laboratory work up to determine undiagnosed reasons for weight gain. A registered dietitian will provide a structured nutrition plan that is easy to understand and implement into your daily routine during your one on one consultation. Our program provides group classes with the emphasis on understanding what you eat and the impact it has on weight gain or weight loss, significant life style changes needed to maintain weight loss and the importance of physical activity. With the guidance of our professional health care team you will begin making the necessary behavior modifications needed to be successful at long term weight loss; thereby, meeting your own personal goals.
Yes, you may sign up by calling 812-376-5640 to schedule your first appointment. We will then ask you to attend an information session. Information sessions are offered in our office by the nurse practitioner or online at www.columbusweightloss.com/weight-loss. We also ask that you complete the patient registration form found on that same webpage, prior to your initial consult. Your physician may refer you to our program, but a physician referral is not required.
Our team works in collaboration with your primary care physician, sending him or her regular reports, updates and recommendations.
You qualify by a number of factors including your weight – as a general rule, if you are 35 pounds or more overweight. Other factors include the presence of any comorbidities – high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sleep apnea, etc.
Most insurance plans will cover the cost, though you may be responsible for any deductibles or copays. If you are more than 35 pounds overweight but not indicating any comorbidities (diabetes, blood pressure, sleep apnea, etc.) then it is likely your insurance will not cover the program. If this is the case, your out-of-pocket costs can be expected to amount to approximately $500 over the course of the first four months of treatment.
The initial four months in the weight loss program typically involves eight sessions lasting between 30 to 60 minutes each. Sessions may also include a group session. Initially you will see a nurse practitioner as part of your assessment, which includes lab work, followed by a dietician who will go over the proper nutrition needed for successful, lasting weight loss. Please set aside an hour for each of these assessment sessions. Additional sessions will incorporate a physical trainer to help you build an exercise regimen that’s appropriate to your physical ability.
1) Call the Weight Loss Institute at 812-376-5640 to schedule your first appointment.
2) View our online information session.
3) Register with MyChart.