Over 60% of the American population is overweight, obese or morbidly obese. From a societal aspect, we are struggling with slowing the obesity epidemic. Employers and health plans are addressing new approaches to weight management & wellness programs; public sectors are revisiting the importance of physical education, school lunch and vending programs; and legislative groups are rapidly implementing Healthy People initiatives.
With all the focus on weight management, it is critical that people are able to maintain healthy behaviors and long-term weight loss. A person’s weight and BMI level best determines the appropriate intervention and likelihood of success. In addition, compliance and behavior modification further ensures this success. We know that behavior modifications such as post-surgical follow-up visits that include nutrition, exercise and support group discussions are pivotal to achieving a patient’s goals. Motivating compliance, especially for the long term, is the biggest challenge.
This symposium will address some successful patient motivational tactics associated with each area along the obesity care continuum. Additionally, the program will address the impact patient compliance has on long-term behavior modification; successful lifestyle changes; resolution or improved co-morbid conditions; and long term weight loss. As a case manager working with the obese population, you will be better able to motivate patient compliance and ensure success by attending this symposium.
Objectives:
- Identify the key requirements for patient motivation. Identity differences based on the patient’s obesity level (or BMI).
- Identify patient behavior management techniques that enhance post-bariatric laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery success.
- Develop a strategy to ensure patient post-surgery compliance.