The first of many programs that CBHA will rollout as part of an ongoing wellness initiative launched in January. CBHA patients can now enroll and participate in TotalYou, a lifestyle and weight management program that focuses on the entire patient in a holistic approach to weight loss.

The success of OptiFast, a meal-replacement weight-loss protocol, encouraged CBHA to open the opportunity to the entire patient population. With OptiFast, patients have to qualify to participate. They must have a body- mass index (BMI) exceeding 30 and other disease-related factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or hypertension. TotalYou, a wellness program that includes OptiFast, but may also pro - vide alternatives to a meal-replacement package, allows any patient interested in positive lifestyle changes to sign up.

INTEGRATED WEIGHT-LOSS TEAM

OptiFast utilizes education, treatment, and prevention to help patients lose weight through a 52-week program. Bashar Elali, MD, is the sponsor, and can be referred to for his specialty in weight-loss man - agement for diabetic communi - ties. However, participants work with their primary care provider (PCP) to manage and monitor risk factors, wellness indicators, and the effects of rapid weight loss. A team of experts that includes dietitians, behavior health coun - selors, and weight-loss coaches help patients along the way.

“If a patient is interested in a weight-loss program, they call the clinic or speak with their primary care physician (PCP),” CBHA Director of Health and Wellness Kristen Stevens explained. “We make a follow-up call within three business days to begin the initial intake process. This includes pre-qualifying the patient for a specific program, and then scheduling time for a lifestyle assessment.”

The assessment helps CBHA behavior-health specialists determine if a patient has lifestyle factors to be addressed as part of the program, such as body-image issues, disease-risk or work-related factors, and/or mental-health concerns.

“We look at the total person,” Stevens shared. “It’s not just about the weight loss. You have a support group that wants to see you succeed. You also work with a registered dietitian who looks at everything going on with you to fine-tune an approach that fits your needs.”

Weekly check-ins with dietitians, counselors, and program faculty help patients stay on track and feel supported. Educational handouts, one-on-ones, and program events, such as smoothie making and cooking workshops equip patients with the skills to make healthy choices so they can be successful.

Read about one patient's success in Change in Action.