Effectiveness of a Single Physician-led Weight loss Program in Primary
Care Setting
Abstract
Abstract Objective The aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness
of a single physician-led weight loss program in a primary care. Methods
This is a retrospective analysis of 300 patients with a BMI
>30 kg/m2 in an outpatient weight loss program. Weight loss
interventions included lifestyle counseling and pharmacotherapy.
Outcomes were assessed based on percentage weight change during a time
period of two consecutive visits less than 90 days. Results We found
that 57.7%, 43.3% and 16.1% patients who attended the clinic 5 or
more times, 4-5 times, 2-3 times respectively achieved 5% weight loss
(p < 0.0001). In regard to achieving 10% weight loss, 42.3%,
8.7% and 4.3% patients who attended the clinic 5 or more times, 4-5
times and 2-3 times did it respectively (p<0.0001). Moreover
60% of patients achieved 5% of weight loss in about 200 days, and 40%
achieved 10% weight loss in 350 days. Patients who achieved 5% weight
loss, their average A1c was reduced to 5.8 at their last visit from 6.4
at the first visit. Conclusions A single physician-led weight loss
program is effective and can be created within a primary care setting to
achieve 5-10% weight loss.