Seek A Doctor That Treats Obesity and Overweight As A Chronic Disease

If you have had a life-long struggle with your weight, and you have been unsuccessful at weight management using standard diet methods, then you need to work with a doctor who recognizes obesity for what it is - a chronic disease.

Just like those who suffer from diabetes or hypertension, you did NOT ask for this disease.

You need to work with a doctor who is willing and able to recommend alternative therapies, and one who will consider medical weight loss management -  if called for.

You may have to change doctors, pay for treatment without insurance coverage, or even travel out of your local area to find the right physician for you.

You are worth whatever effort it takes to ensure that all of your medical needs are met.

Seek A Doctor Who Is Willing And Able To Treat You From A Whole-Person Perspective

Working with a doctor who is able to treat you from a whole-person perspective is critical to successful long-term weight loss and weight management.

What do we mean, "whole-person"? 

• You should seek a doctor who has a keen understanding of the various causes of obesity and associated treatments for obesity.
  
• You will also need to work with a doctor that understands the potential negative weight management side effects of medications that you may need for other conditions. 
  
• Look for a doctor who is willing to work with you using alternative therapies, that may include off-label use of medications for weight management and weight loss, if appropriate.
  

Keep in mind that there is no sub-specialty in medical school for obesity.  Many doctors are not knowledgeable of the causes, issues, and treatments that surround obesity. 

Many Doctors Will Not Treat Patients For Obesity

According to the research firm Market Data, there are only 38,000 doctors in the United States that are substantially involved in weight loss management programs.

Many doctors in the United States shy away from working with obesity as an illness.  One of the primary reasons is that most insurance companies do not cover medical treatment for obesity.  Another reason is that those doctors that do treat patients for obesity are often subjected to higher malpractice insurance rates.  

If you would like to sign the bellaSavio Declaration for Change, please click here.

What To Look For In Your Treatment Provider

A key question to ask your doctor is whether or not they prescribe weight loss medications, if needed, and if so - what medications have they used successfully.

If your doctor will not prescribe a weight loss medication, then this is an indicator that they do not really treat obesity as an illness or disease.

You may or may not need to be treated with weight loss medication.  However, if you are suffering from any form of eating disorder, then there is a chance that you will need medication for long-term success.  You may also find that the best resource for assistance is a mental health provider. 

Some of the most successful weight loss studies today are linked with what is known as the 'off-label' use of medications. This is where medications are used to treat obesity that have not been FDA approved for weight management.  If your doctor only prescribes FDA approve weight loss medications, then your treatment may be somewhat limited. Click here to learn more about the use of weight loss medications.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor

1. Do you treat obesity and obesity related illnesses?
2. What is your philosophy regarding obesity and overweight?  Do you think that obesity is a disease or something that should be treated by a nutritionist?
3. Do you use weight loss medications to treat obesity?  If so, which ones?
4. Do you consider the implications of weight gain when prescribing medications for a patient’s other health issues?
5. Approximately how many patients do you see for obesity related treatment?
6. Have you ever personally dealt with obesity?  Have you ever been overweight?
7. How often will you want to see me while I am losing weight and when I reach my weight goal?
8. Will you work with me on a food plan?
9. Can you help me identify any possible food allergies or sensitivities that I may have?
10. Are you available to speak with me by phone should I have questions between my visits?  How can I contact you?
11. How long does it take to get an appointment with you?