The weight management journey can be complex. It’s never as simple as “eat less, move more,” which is commonly prescribed to individuals who struggle. Sometimes, you require an army of individuals to stand by your side. The right healthcare team can be that army.
Addressing Weight with Your Healthcare Team
Your weight matters because it impacts your health. Who do you turn to when you’re trying to improve your health? Healthcare providers! These are individuals who are equipped with the tools, knowledge and resources to bring about lasting physical and psychological well-being.
Do you have any specific questions or concerns about your current weight and health? Not sure where to begin on your weight management journey, or how you should address important topics like weight regain and related conditions? These aren’t questions you can answer on your own — at least with the assurance that the information you’re receiving is evidence-based. That’s where the right healthcare team comes into play.
Building Your Healthcare Team
So…what’s next? Are you supposed to just schedule a visit with your primary care doctor and call it a day? Well, that’s a start — but building your healthcare team can involve so much more.
First, let’s take a look at the kinds of healthcare providers who may be relevant to your weight management journey:
- Primary Care Physicians
- Obesity Medicine Specialists
- Registered Dietitian Nutritionists
- Nurse Practitioners
- Psychologists
- And more
Next, think about the quality of care you want in a healthcare provider on your team. Are they understanding and respectful of individuals at any weight? Do they recognize that weight is complex, and addressing weight involves a comprehensive treatment approach? Do you feel comfortable being in there care? These are all important questions to ask yourself.
Building a Relationship
Once you’ve made an appointment with a member of your healthcare team, it’s important that you stick to your plan and commit to your weight and health. An important factor in this plan is building a relationship with your healthcare providers that will see you through your goals. What all does this entail?
- Coming to your appointment prepared
- Being open, honest and transparent
- Asking any questions you may have
- Recording your symptoms, health conditions and thoughts
- Taking any advice your healthcare provider may give
- Scheduling follow-up appointments
Remember: your healthcare team can play a valuable role in your weight and health journey by offering support, tools, resources and guidance. You don’t have to go at it alone! Taking the time to invest in the right healthcare team will only benefit you in the long-run.
