Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes our program unique?
We take an individualized medical approach to weight loss, with an emphasis on improving health as well as losing weight. In addition to medical supervision and assistance, we empower patients with the knowledge and skills to proactively manage their own health for the rest of their life.
2. What is the average weight loss?
Our patients lose 6% of their weight on average, and maintain that weight loss 1+ years later. Each patient has a unique health profile and weight loss goal, and therefore we don’t find much value in calculating a one-size-fits-all pounds lost number.
3. How much does the program cost?
Costs vary depending on your chosen weight loss path, your desired goal, medical diagnoses, and your insurance coverage. We’ll work with you to determine your individual program costs and set a financial plan for success. It is important that you are aware of your health insurance policy’s coverage if you plan to bill the medical visits to insurance.
4. What will I be eating?
We suggest making the lifestyle change to eat mainly whole foods to make it as sustainable as possible. If the best solution for you includes meal replacements or a meal service, we do provide and educate you about those options. You can expect to focus on decreasing carbohydrate intake and increasing protein intake. We provide guidance on meal planning and preparation so that you can adapt and implement the lifestyle change that best suits your health and household needs.
5. Will I have to exercise to lose weight?
Exercise is not a required component of our approach, but we do encourage activity, such as Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (Read More).
6. How many calories are recommended for me to eat?
The individual calorie recommendations for each patient are calculated by a Body Composition Analysis performed at your first office visit. From the BCA, we are able to personalize a calorie plan that will support weight loss.
7. Are appetite suppressants or other prescription medications mandatory?
No, nothing about our program is mandatory, including medications. In some cases, we prescribe appetite suppressants for medical reasons to help curb hunger and cravings, but, if you do not take the medication, you can still be equally successful.
8. Are there any requirements to participate in the program?
There are no requirements to join Oregon Medical Weight Loss. Any motivated patient is welcome.
9. Can I still participate in the program if I have a medical condition like diabetes, hypertension, or reflux?
Yes! A health condition is one of the main reasons for enrolling in a medically-supervised program. Obesity and being overweight can be significant factors to a variety of medical conditions, as well as vice-a-versa – medical conditions and medications can contribute to weight challenges. We have the expertise and experience to ensure that your weight loss process is done safely. Many of our patients with medical conditions like these improve their lab results and often require less medication to control their chronic conditions.
10. What happens if I gain weight?
We will work with you to find a solution together that advances and sustains your weight loss and health gain goals. Sometimes our patients find they have actually gained muscle and lost fat and the scale doesn’t know the difference!
11. Do you offer bariatric (weight loss) surgery?
We do not offer bariatric surgery at our facility but we do partner with a bariatric surgeon and provide pre-operation and post-operation support. If you are unsure whether such a serious procedure is right for you, we invite you to first give medically-supervised weight loss a try. You’ll be subject to less expense, fewer lifestyle changes, and less risk. If you decide surgery is the best option for you, we are here to support you through your journey!