While many patients are motivated to lose weight to improve their self-image or comfort, health is also a highly motivating factor. Patients who are overweight are at increased risk of serious diseases and problems, including:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Coronary artery disease
• Stroke
• Cardiovascular death
• Certain cancers
• Depression
• Infertility in women
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Asthma
• Sleep apnea
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Osteoarthritis
• Back pain
• Gallstones
• Gout
• Chronic kidney disease
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Maintaining a healthy weight can decrease risk.

The healthcare team at Florida Family Practice provides obesity screening, counseling, and ongoing management. Patients can expect to discuss their BMI and potential risks with their doctor, develop a weight loss plan that includes good nutrition and regular exercise, and meet with their doctor regularly to monitor progress and address the patient’s concerns.

Furthermore, the team considers the patient’s weight as a risk factor and will recommend screenings that can help diagnose and treat related conditions early.

Each patient has unique needs that can be addressed through a customized weight loss plan. Some patients need options that work while traveling or on a tight budget, while other patients need to incorporate options that allow them to snack between meals or satisfy a sweet tooth. The team at Florida Family Practice believes that the only successful approach to weight management is one that is customized for patient needs and success.

In most cases, weight management screening and counseling is charged as an office visit and covered by insurance plans that cover office visits (major medical plans may not). While weight management can provide cosmetic benefits, the greatest benefit is the prevention of disease. Patients who are unsure about insurance coverage are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the staff at Florida Family Practice, who can help them learn more.