How many times have you thought, “I’m going to lose the weight when it affects my health,” or “Once things settle down and I have more time to focus on me, I’ll get serious about dieting.” In a world full of weight loss gimmicks and quick fixes, Springfield Clinic offers a different approach to weight loss. Specializing in comprehensive patient-centered care, our experienced team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve meaningful, lasting weight loss and reclaiming your health.
Obesity is a serious condition that can shorten your lifespan and as a result, should be treated early. Overweight and obesity require the same level of long-term treatment as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. According to the Obesity Medicine Association, there are 57 comorbidities associated with obesity. Comorbidities are health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and arthritis. In general, the more weight you carry, the more likely you are to develop weight-related health conditions.
Springfield Clinic Bariatrics works with you to determine the best combination of optimal tools, resources, and treatment options to support you every step of the way on your weight loss journey. We offer state-of-the-art evidenced-based treatment including anti-obesity medications like Wegovy and Zepbound as well as outpatient robotic surgery. We offer medical options for all ages and surgical options for adults and adolescents. Our multidisciplinary team includes bariatric and plastic surgeons, nurse practitioners, nurses, behavioral health therapists, physical therapists, and registered dietitians.
A comprehensive approach includes multiple options, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Lifestyle Management Program
Behavior modification helps you build a set of strategies to achieve and sustain a healthier lifestyle, which supports your long-term, sustained weight loss goals. At Springfield Clinic Bariatrics, we focus on several strategies, including:
- Evaluating your current habits and working with you to create new ones.
- Setting goals that are specific, meaningful, achievable, realistic, time-bound, enjoyable, and rewarding.
- Self-monitoring your activity and eating habits, whether you use good old-fashioned pen and paper, your camera phone, or our snazzy fitness app Baritastic.
- Managing your stress by identification of healthy coping mechanisms and relaxation techniques.
- Establishing alternative coping behaviors by identifying your eating triggers and counteracting those with new activities.
- Providing evening support groups and classes to better accommodate your schedule.
Weight Loss Medications
Anti-obesity medications are a great tool to help manage cravings, improve mindfulness when eating, and to become more aware of why we are eating. With the advent of GLP-1s such as Wegovy and Zepbound on the market, there are now more options available than ever. Insurance coverage for weight loss medications has expanded, and as of July 1st, all State of Illinois employees have coverage for anti-obesity medications. The combination of these highly effective medications with our Lifestyle Management Program can produce great long-term results.
Bariatric Surgery
Previously, bariatric surgery was considered a “last resort” treatment. Now, with innovative techniques and experienced surgeons operating in accredited centers, bariatric surgery has become a front-line treatment option for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Outpatient bariatric surgery is an option for many patients. Robotic surgery allows surgeons to be more precise and can improve your recovery time.
Taking the First Step
Taking the first step towards a healthier life can be challenging, but with Springfield Clinic Bariatrics, you are never alone on your journey.
Call 309.495.0200 to take the first step today. To learn more about the Springfield Clinic Bariatric Weight Loss Center, visit https://www.springfieldclinic.com/bariatrics.