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The VPMC medical weight loss program
One consult, a plan, then monthly visits until you reach your goal. Medication when it is right for you, nutrition and coaching for everyone.
Who this is for
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher who have tried on their own
- Anyone whose weight is driving blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, joint pain or sleep apnea
- Patients who want medication prescribed and monitored by a physician, not a website
- VPMC primary care patients who want weight care in the same record
What's included
- 30-minute consult with the obesity medicine team
- Labs and body-composition measurement
- FDA-approved anti-obesity medication when appropriate, prior authorization handled
- Dietitian visit and a personalized food plan
- Monthly follow-ups, in person or by video
- Messaging between visits through the patient portal
- Health coaching for habits that last
How it works
- Book a consult online, or call or text. Bring your medication list and any recent labs.
- At the consult we set a realistic target and start the plan. If medication is appropriate, we send the prescription and start prior authorization the same day.
- You see the dietitian within two weeks, then the provider monthly. We adjust dose, food plan and activity each visit.
- When you reach goal, you move to the Maintenance program.
Common questions
Do I need a referral?
No. Book online, or call or text us. If your doctor referred you, we send them a summary after your first visit with your permission.
Is this covered by insurance?
The consult and follow-up visits are covered by most plans as medical visits. Medication coverage depends on your plan; use the coverage checker on our insurance page and we verify your exact benefits before you come in.
How fast will I lose weight?
Most patients on a medical program lose 1–2 pounds a week in the first months; medication, when appropriate, often adds to that. We set a target together at the first visit and adjust the plan monthly.
Do you prescribe GLP-1 medication?
When it is medically appropriate, yes. We prescribe FDA-approved anti-obesity medications, handle prior authorization, and monitor you monthly. Medication is one tool in a plan that also includes nutrition and habits.
Can I do visits by video?
Yes. After the first visit, most follow-ups can be by secure video anywhere in Virginia. Body-composition checks are in person.
Is the program safe if I have diabetes or heart disease?
That is exactly who should be in a physician-led program. Dr. Palagiri is board certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, and your weight plan is coordinated with your other conditions and medications.
Start with one 30-minute consult.
An insured medical visit with our obesity medicine team, in person or by video.