Losing weight is no longer something people need to power through alone. Medically supported weight loss is more common than ever, with specialized clinics and networks available to offer patients a holistic approach to weight loss.
Whether you work within one of these systems or as a primary care provider, knowing when and to whom to refer your weight loss patients can be truly beneficial to their weight loss journey—and serve as a reminder it’s not all on you.
Dieticians: A registered dietician (RD) can help your weight loss patients with personalized nutrition plans. This includes analyzing their current diet and making recommendations on how to shift their eating habits to be healthier. They’ll also ensure your patients are getting enough of the right nutrients and calories.
Personal trainers: As your weight loss patients start to incorporate more movement into their daily lives, working with a personal trainer can help safely introduce them to beneficial exercises and get them familiar with gym equipment. Personal trainers analyze patients’ current fitness levels and customize a cardio and strength training plan specifically for their bodies.
Physical therapists: Patients who struggle with everyday movements can benefit from seeing a physical therapist. Chronic pain from injuries or comorbidities can create a vicious cycle in which the patient is in too much pain to exercise, contributing further to weight gain. A physical therapist can help your weight loss patients find confidence in moving their bodies again.
Therapists and counselors: Stress is one of the top antagonists to weight loss progress. Excess cortisol in the body can trigger appetites and protect fat cells as a physiological response. Many overweight patients also struggle with emotional eating. Referring these patients to a therapist that can work to reduce stress and boost mental health can have benefits to their physical health as well.
Final Note On Keeping Patients Safe
It’s important that everyone in your patient’s weight loss care team is aware of any and all medications that your patient is taking, including ones prescribed specifically for weight loss. As with all drugs, being aware of potential side effects is critical for safely supporting any weight loss journey.
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