Who Qualifies for Medical Weight Loss?

At Fresno Medical Center, you may be eligible for certain weight management treatments even if you do not have an obesity-related health condition. You do not need an obesity-related health condition to be eligible for a medical weight loss program. The eligibility criteria are based primarily on your Body Mass Index (BMI).

You may be a good candidate if you have a BMI of 30 or greater, which is the medical definition of obesity. This high BMI alone is often sufficient for a person to be a candidate for a medical weight loss program. However, eligibility is also extended to individuals with a lower BMI of 27 or greater if they have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Because every patient is unique, Fresno Medical Center recommends scheduling a consultation with one of our healthcare professionals. We will carefully review your health history, current medical conditions, and weight loss goals to determine which treatment options are appropriate for you.

Losing weight can be a complex process influenced by a variety of factors such as genetics, metabolism, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle habits. Having a physician involved in your weight loss journey is important because a medical team can assess your overall health, identify medical reasons that may be contributing to your weight gain, and ensure that any weight loss plan is safe and appropriate for your unique needs.

Physicians can screen for conditions like thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, or diabetes, which can make losing weight more challenging. They also carefully review your current medications to see if any might be affecting your weight and suggest alternatives if necessary. With their medical expertise, they can recommend evidence-based treatments and tailor a plan that includes nutrition, physical activity, and, when appropriate, prescription medications or referrals to specialists such as dietitians or behavioral therapists.

Additionally, weight loss under medical supervision allows for regular monitoring of your progress and early detection of any potential complications, such as nutrient deficiencies or changes in blood pressure and blood sugar. This level of oversight helps ensure that you are losing weight in a healthy and sustainable way. Physicians provide ongoing motivation and support, which are crucial for long-term success.

At Fresno Medical Center, Dr. Gurmej Dhillon, MD, is dedicated to helping you navigate challenges and celebrate your achievements along the way. With the support of experienced medical professionals, you can embark on your weight loss journey with confidence and personalized care.

We follow established medical guidelines to determine eligibility for our weight loss interventions. The specific BMI required for medical weight loss typically depends on the program and the healthcare provider’s guidelines. However, most medical weight loss programs recommend the following BMI thresholds:

• BMI of 30 or higher: This is generally considered obesity, and individuals with this BMI may qualify for medical weight loss treatments such as prescription medications or supervised weight loss plans.

• BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related health conditions: For those with a BMI in this range, but who also have conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea, medical weight loss options may also be available.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach based on your unique health profile and weight loss goals. At Fresno Medical Center, our providers conduct comprehensive medical assessments to consider your health risks and needs, ensuring you receive the safest and most effective weight loss strategy tailored to you.

At Fresno Medical Center, our medical weight loss programs are guided by age-related best practices to ensure safety and effectiveness for each patient. Age restrictions for medical weight loss programs can vary depending on the specific program and healthcare provider. Generally, these programs are designed for adults, with most providers focusing on individuals aged 18 and older. However, some programs may have specific age guidelines, such as not offering certain treatments or medications to individuals under 18 or over a certain age due to safety concerns or medical considerations.

In some cases, teens who are struggling with obesity may qualify for medical weight loss programs under the supervision of a pediatrician or weight management specialist. Similarly, older adults may be eligible for certain treatments, but the provider will consider factors like overall health, underlying conditions, and the risks associated with weight loss interventions for those in older age groups. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to assess your eligibility based on your age and health status.

At Fresno Medical Center, our providers create individualized weight loss plans based on your age, health status, and personal goals. Contact us or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced healthcare professionals to determine the best approach for your weight management journey. We are conveniently located at 6069 N First St # 103, Fresno, CA 93710. We serve patients from Fresno CA, Clovis CA, West Park CA, Mayfair CA, Muscatel CA, Burness CA, Lone Star CA and surrounding areas.