I’ve talked about telehealth weight loss programs in general, but in this section I’ll outline the specific types of available weight loss programs – I highly suggest familiarising yourself with these options before you compare weight loss clinics online.
Obesity and Overweight
There are numerous online weight loss clinics that centre their attention on overweight adults, or those living with obesity.
Telehealth enables the doctor to examine medical history and medicine usage as well as past weight loss efforts before determining whether or not lifestyle modifications, prescription weight control medicine, or both, would be appropriate.
The patient’s weight and health goals are established through video or phone consultations, following which the doctor orders any blood tests they deem necessary, and creates a plan, which usually focuses on eating habits, movement and sleep.
PCOS and Hormonal Weight Gain
Polycystic ovary syndrome is another reason that leads people to seek medical weight loss assistance, as it can result in hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance, which increase the difficulty of losing weight.
Telehealth enables physicians to get an elaborate history of menstrual cycles, symptoms and past investigations, and make decisions as to which investigations or treatments should be conducted. Treatment usually focuses on nutrition and exercise advice, as well as medicines targeting insulin resistance, plus weight loss medication when clinically appropriate.
Metabolic Syndrome, High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol
In my experience, companies operating online weight loss clinics often deal with individuals who have a compilation of risk factors, including abdominal weight gain, high blood pressure, mental health issues and high cholesterol.
Telehealth visits enable physicians to determine cardiovascular risk, existing medications and health-related behaviours without requiring an examination. The therapies generally focus on slow weight loss with a healthy diet, enhanced exercise, and when appropriate prescription medication for managing either appetite or metabolism.
Sleep Apnoea and Breathing Problems
Excess weight has been a major cause of obstructive sleep apnoea and other breathing disorders, and therefore, in most telehealth weight loss programs, assessment of sleep symptoms is included.
In an online consult, a doctor will enquire about the patients snoring, observed gaps in breathing, fatigue throughout the day and headaches in the morning, and determine whether a sleep study is necessary or not. In the event of sleep apnoea, weight loss will form a larger part of the treatment that can also involve the use of sleep machines.
Fatty Liver Disease and Liver Concerns
Fatty liver disorder, which is largely non-alcoholic, is becoming common among overweight individuals. Most Mental Health Telehealth Providers also consider liver health when they formulate mental health treatment plans.
Following an online telehealth session, a doctor can examine past liver tests, alcohol consumption, medications and metabolic risk factors, and order additional blood tests or imaging should it be necessary. Usually the central theme of treatment is weight reduction through change of nutrition and increased activity, which could lead to a decrease of fat in the liver.