NewStart | Medical Weight Management Program

It’s not as simple as diet and exercise. In some cases, achieving and managing a healthy weight can require professional assistance.

Obesity is a medical condition that is treatable when you have the right weight loss specialist and an individualized plan. At Memorial Hermann, we work with you to determine the root cause of the problem and then create a path forward to help you live a healthier life with sustainable weight loss.

If you are struggling with obesity, our comprehensive program provides an in-depth assessment to determine which factors are driving weight gain along with a personalized treatment plan. Our goal is to help you experience a healthier and more active life.

Specialists affiliated with Memorial Hermann’s NewStart Medical Weight Management Program use a scientifically based medical approach to weight loss. The process is different from traditional weight loss models because it is a personalized plan that focuses on sustainable change and long-term follow up. Many patients have learned from earlier failed attempts that losing weight too quickly with fad diets or supplements is rarely successful and can also be very expensive.

The Program

The first visit is a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying causes of obesity and make recommendations for an individualized, medical treatment plan. This evaluation includes an in-depth discussion with the physician about the patient’s psychological, behavioral, and environmental history.

Other assessments include an electrocardiogram (EKG), body-composition analysis, resting metabolic rate analysis, and lab tests. Some patients may be referred for additional testing that could include a sleep study.

Once the treatment plan is established, patients will alternate visits with the physician and dietitian to implement the action steps. The plan may include medication, mental-health counseling, or behavior modifications.

The goals of the program are to achieve overall health improvement through sustainable weight loss and resolution or management of related conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure and others.

Most patients in a MWM program have a body-mass index (BMI) greater than 30, or a BMI greater than 27 with an obesity-related medical condition. These related conditions include sleep apnea, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, prediabetes or insulin resistance.

Patients who are most successful with the program have a genuine interest in losing weight and improving overall health and are ready to actively start the process and adhere to the plan.