Obesity screenings and behavioral counseling for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. This counseling is covered if a primary care provider offers the counseling in a primary care setting (like a doctor's office), where they can coordinate a personalized prevention plan that aligns with other care plans and goals.

Counseling involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, whereby ways to change eating and exercise habits are learned and, if practiced, can work very well.

Body mass index or “BMI” is a simplified physical indicator utilized by healthcare providers, health plans, and insurance carriers to determine health status and risks.  BMI is calculated using age, gender at birth, height, and weight. Being overweight, and especially being obese, poses numerous health risks.  Morbid obesity can result in serious health complications.

Obesity has now widely been embraced as a disease state and is being treated as such.

Discussion about weight is approached respectfully and non-judgmentally and starts with reviewing the health risks associated with being overweight or obese.  Physical activity and diet are addressed through behavioral therapy, and the mental aspects of weight gain/weight loss and lifestyle choices are addressed through cognitive therapy (reframing how we think about things).  Canceling negative thoughts and developing greater emotional resilience by cultivating a healthy relationship with food and the body is as essential to weight loss and maintenance as proper diet and exercise.

Talk to a primary care provider to find out more.