Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is medical weight loss?

Medical weight loss is a weight management program based on medical/scientific principles directed by a medical provider that target the root causes of obesity and weight gain to achieve and sustain a healthy weight in the long term.

What is obesity medicine?

Obesity medicine is the study, understanding and treatment of the medical disease, obesity. Obesity was recognized by the American Medical Association as a disease in 2013. The World Health Organization recognized obesity as a disease where “abnormal or excessive body fat presents a risk to health”.

What does an obesity medicine physician do?

Obesity medicine physicians are doctors who specialize in treating obesity, overweight patients, and related disorders; they focus on helping patients improve their weight health without surgical intervention, and provide the tools and support to maintain it. We recognize the treatment of obesity is far more than just losing weight. Obesity can contribute to 236 other diseases including 13 types of cancer. While weight loss can be a part of the treatment of obesity it is not complete treatment.

How is Weight In Gold™ different?

Our approach is designed by a medical weight loss specialist. We take the time to get to know your individual needs and design an approach based on losing weight safely and maintaining that loss for life. We are not a “one size fits all” weight loss clinic with a set algorithm.

Do you take insurance?

We take most major insurances.

What if my insurance says they don’t cover weight loss services?

Usually these statements do not apply to medically treating obesity especially if you have developed other chronic conditions related to your weight. It is very unusual for our visits to be excluded from coverage.

Do I need to have obesity to be seen at Weight In Gold™?

Clinically obesity is considered excess or abnormal distribution of adipose (fat) tissue. Weight In Gold™ welcomes anyone who would like to lose weight and learn to maintain their weight loss.

Do you prescribe medication?

We treat obesity as a chronic disease and follow the latest clinical guidelines which includes working with patients on nutrition, physical activity, behaviors, as well as prescribing medications and referrals for surgery when indicated.

How expensive are medications?

This depends on your medication coverage plan. We recommend contacting them prior to your appointment to know what your options are. If you do not have drug coverage there are affordable generic medications we may be able to use.

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Referrals are not required. We will keep your current care team updated on your treatment plan and will coordinate any changes with them.

Can I still see my regular doctor once I see providers at Weight In Gold™?

Yes. Our providers do not replace your primary care providers. We actively manage any conditions that are related to weight like Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, etc while you are losing weight. We keep your primary care providers updated on your progress and any changes to your medications that may be required.

Does Weight In Gold™ treat patients outside of Wisconsin?

We can see some patients in other states. Please reach out to see if we have a provider licensed in your area.

How often will I meet with my provider?

Patients are encouraged to meet with their weight health provider at least monthly. Patients are encouraged to meet with their health coach at least every 1-2 weeks. Patients who are higher risk may meet with their provider weekly at first.

Is there an age minimum to be treated at Weight In Gold™?

We treat children and adults at any age.