Frequently Asked Questions

How is Swedish Medical Weight Management different from other programs?

What diet will I follow?

How long does the program take?

What kind of food will I eat?

Will I need to take supplements or medications?

I want bariatric surgery. Why should I do the Medical Weight Management Program?

Do you accept insurance?

Who will provide my care?

How do I get started? 

How is the Medical Weight Management different from other programs?

The Medical Weight Management Program (non-surgical weight loss) is medically supervised by a team of physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, dieticians, clinical nurse specialists, registered nurses and counselors. It is based on the most up-to-date medical research and addresses the medical issues that complicate persistent excess weight. The program focuses on achieving long-term changes in behavior and attitudes. This is done by providing individual attention that tailors the program to your needs and health issues.

What diet will I follow?

The Medical Weight Management Program is not a diet. It is about long-term weight management achieved through lifestyle changes and behavior modification. Dietary changes are among many components of the program. Our nutritional guidelines are aimed at:

• Emphasizing high quality protein and limiting fat promoting carbohydrates
• Controlling hunger
• Providing maximum nutrition at the least caloric expense
• Continually reminding your body that it is well nourished and can safely shed fat
• Providing you with foods that you enjoy while you lose weight and will continue to eat once you reach maintenance

How long does the program take?

Since the goals of weight loss and weight management are different for each individual, the time involved is different as well.  Excess weight is a medical condition that is managed, not cured.  We work with each individual to not only lose weight but to maintain a healthy weight during the maintenance phase. You will work with your practitioner to set realistic, meaningful goals to optimize your lifestyle.

What kind of food will I eat?

Your Swedish practitioner will help provide you with a diet prescription to direct the types of foods you will eat. These include wise choices of grocery store foods and can include nutritional food products, or "meal replacements," that provide convenience, good taste and quality nutrition.

Will I need to take supplements or medications?

Sometimes vitamins or supplements are recommended. If our providers feel it would be beneficial for your long-term weight management success, they may suggest medications to help reduce appetite, decrease binge eating, increase mental focus or stabilize mood.

I want bariatric surgery. Why should I do the Medical Weight Management Program?

Before undergoing surgery, you may be required to successfully complete this program. This is to demonstrate your commitment to long-term lifestyle changes, teach you how to make healthy food choices after your surgery and build up your daily physical activity levels prior to having surgery. Success in the Medical Weight Management Program is a strong predictor of success after bariatric surgery. Additionally, bariatric surgeons report a lower complication rate in patients who successfully lose weight prior to surgery.

Do you accept insurance?

While Swedish Medical Center has relationships with most of the major insurance providers, coverage of weight-related problems varies from plan to plan. Please check with your plan administrator to see if your insurance plan would reimburse you for any of our services. Lab work may be covered by your insurance. We are happy to provide copies of your medical records, if requested.

Who will provide my care?

Throughout your treatment you will meet with our team of experts. Each provider has unique skills and insights regarding medicine, nutrition, exercise and behavior-modification techniques.

How do I get started?

Call our office at 206-215-2090 to schedule a visit.