Obesity medicine is a rapidly growing field, driven by the increasing prevalence of obesity and the need for comprehensive treatment strategies. For clinics focused on obesity medicine, integrating holistic programming is not only beneficial for patient outcomes but also essential for standing out in a competitive market. Here, we’ll explore why holistic care is crucial for obesity medicine practices and how it can help providers opening or scaling their clinics.
Article by: Whittany Gibson, RDN
Whittany is the Co-Founder of Alterra Health and a seasoned Registered Dietitian specializing in bariatric and medical weight loss. With over ten years of expertise in the weight loss industry, she designs comprehensive nutrition, mindset, exercise, and coaching programs to support patients on their journey to better health.
1) The rise of obesity medicine practices.
The number of obesity medicine specialists has increased significantly in recent years. According to the Obesity Medicine Association, the number of specialists rose by over 20% last year alone. This surge is driven by the alarming statistics from the CDC, which indicate that over 40% of U.S. adults are affected by obesity. As the demand for effective obesity treatment grows, clinics must offer exceptional, comprehensive care to remain competitive and succeed long-term.
2) Why holistic care matters.
Holistic care in obesity medicine focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of obesity. This approach addresses the physical, emotional, mental, and social aspects of health, leading to better patient outcomes and higher satisfaction rates. Here are the key reasons why holistic care is essential:
Comprehensive treatment: Holistic programs encompass various aspects of health, including nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and lifestyle changes, ensuring a well-rounded treatment plan.
Personalized care: Each patient receives tailored care that addresses their unique needs and challenges, which is more effective than one-size-fits-all solutions.
Long-term success: Holistic approaches promote sustainable lifestyle changes, leading to long-term weight management and improved overall health.
Patient satisfaction: Patients are more likely to stick with a program that supports their entire well-being, leading to better adherence and outcomes.
3) Implementing holistic programming in your clinic.
For those opening or scaling an obesity medicine practice, integrating holistic programming can set your clinic apart and drive success. Here’s how to get started:
Offer comprehensive support programs: Develop programs that include nutritional counseling, physical activity guidance, mental health support, and lifestyle coaching. Utilize platforms like Alterra Health, which offers a range of support programs including private groups, workshops, masterclasses, e-courses, and comprehensive guides.
Incorporate telehealth options: Expand your reach and provide convenience for your patients by offering telehealth services. This ensures continuous support and care, no matter where your patients are located.
Adopt a membership model: Implement a membership model to reduce complications with insurance and provide consistent revenue streams. This also allows for more personalized and continuous patient care.
Focus on education & community: Provide patients with access to educational resources and a supportive community. This can include survival guides, structured learning modules, and online support groups that foster a sense of belonging and motivation.
4) The role of Alterra Health in delivering holistic patient care.
Alterra Health is the leading education and support platform for obesity medicine practices. By partnering with Alterra Health, clinics can leverage their expertise in holistic care to optimize patient outcomes and streamline operations. Alterra Health’s comprehensive support programs and white-label service options allow clinics to seamlessly integrate holistic care into their practice, ensuring long-term success.
5) Closing thoughts for medical weight loss providers.
In the rapidly evolving field of obesity medicine, adopting a holistic approach is crucial for providing high-quality care and achieving long-term success. By focusing on the whole person and offering comprehensive support, clinics can improve patient outcomes, increase satisfaction, and stand out in a competitive market. For those opening or scaling an obesity medicine practice, integrating holistic programming is the key to thriving in this growing field. For more information on how Alterra Health can transform your practice, visit the Practitioner section of our website. Embrace holistic care and lead your clinic to success in the fight against obesity.
**Medical providers, curious to learn more? Click here to register for our upcoming webinar, “How to Grow a Successful Patient-Centered Obesity Medicine Practice”
Alterra Health and its parent company Puente Holdings, LLC provide education, coaching, guides, support, and programs for patients. Individual results may vary. This article should not be construed as medical advice. For all clinical questions, please consult your medical provider.