Now that the AMA has labeled obesity as a disease, new guidelines are provided to doctors on their obligation to help patients lose weight. The next time you see your doctor, expect that your weight will be addressed. The medical profession is urging physicians to be more aggressive about helping patients lose weight.
The guidelines are straight forward and advise doctors to do the following:
1) Take height, weight and waist measurements, calculate BMI and tell the patient if they are overweight or obese.
2) Develop a weight loss plan that includes exercise and calorie-cutting.
3) Recommend weight-loss surgery for patients with a BMI greater than 40.
4) Refer overweight and obese patients who are headed for heart problems to a weight loss program that includes at least 14 face-to-face counseling sessions over a six month period with a registered dietitian, psychologist or other professional with training in weight management.
These guidelines were released this month by a group of medical organizations that include the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology and the Obesity Society. It is recognized that most doctors have little training in how to help their obese patients other than telling the patient that it is a problem and that they should lose weight and begin exercising.
As a Medical Weight Loss specialist, New Horizon receives many referrals from primary care doctors and family practices. New Horizon is viewed as a medical weight loss specialists serving as a critical resource to the medical community whereby its multi-disciplined staff (medical, nutrition, fitness and counseling) will work very closely with patients to achieve healthy behavior and lifestyle changes. As the weight loss expert New Horizon customizes every weight loss plan to the individual’s needs.