The First Step – Initial Evaluation
To begin the program, we will perform a medical evaluation to determine if you have any medical issues that may interfere with your efforts to lose weight. Dr. Evans will discuss treatment options with you based on the results of your medical evaluation. Because your customized treatment plan is based on your physical assessment, metabolic tests and laboratory results, you must periodically be reevaluated so that Dr. Evans can adjust your treatment plan as your medical conditions resolve and your weight decreases.
The initial evaluation will take 1½ -2 hours and can be completed at one of our program clinics. During the evaluation:
- You will need to provide a complete medical history
- You will undergo a physical, body composition analysis and EKG
- You will undergo recommended laboratory tests
- Our behavior therapist and exercise physiologist will consult with you and you will need to undergo an intake assessment
The Second Step – Active Weight Loss
Active weight loss stage begins when you receive your treatment plan and start the program. Because your program is based on your specific needs and weight loss goals, the duration of the program varies for each of our patients. Once you begin the program, you will visit the clinic once a week so that Dr. Evans can monitor and evaluate your progress. He will ensure you are losing weight as safely and efficiently as possible and also adjust your medications as you lose weight.
During active weight loss stage, you receive behavioral and nutrition counseling and our expert staff will help you build and begin following an exercise regimen that works for your lifestyle and goals.
You will need to meet weekly, either individually or in a group setting, with our behavioral therapist. She will help you identify behavioral issues linked to the unhealthy choices you’ve made in the past and implement behavioral changes that lead to a healthy lifestyle and help you control your weight.
Each week, staff at the Evans Weight Control Group will evaluate your weight and body composition and any recommended laboratory tests. You will have the opportunity to consult with Dr. Evans about your concerns, questions and progress. You need to be comfortable with the process and our staff is here to answer all of your questions.
The Third Step – Transition
As you get closer to your weight loss goals, the amount of medical weight loss meal replacement formula that you use will gradually be reduced, and you will transition to a regular diet and conventional foods. During this step, we provide weekly nutrition counseling sessions designed to help you master the skills you need to maintain your weight loss for a lifetime. Throughout this step, Dr. Evans continues to monitor your progress and health to ensure maximum safety.
The Fourth Step – Ongoing Weight Management
Once you have achieved your weight loss goal, we recommend that you visit our clinic at least twice a month for the next six months to participate in ongoing weight maintenance sessions. During these sessions, our staff continues to monitor your weight and body composition. Because ongoing maintenance has been shown to be one of the greatest predictors of long-term weight loss success, many of our patients continue to visit us monthly for support and guidance indefinitely.
