Your First Visit
- Losing just 5%-10% of body weight can lower your risk of serious health problems and improve energy and overall health.
- Your first visit includes a full health review, goal setting and a personalized medical or surgical weight loss plan.
- You’ll leave with clear next steps, which may include lab work, medication, lifestyle changes or preparation for surgery.
At your first visit to NKC Health’s Total Weight Loss Center, you’ll meet with a care team, review your health history and goals, and leave with a personalized medical or surgical weight loss plan and clear next steps.
Thank you for considering the NKC Health Total Weight Loss Center as your partner in losing weight. We are honored to be a part of your health journey, and we look forward to meeting you to discuss the best way to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Benefits of weight loss
Your decision to lose weight is a choice for better health. Losing just 5%-10% of body fat decreases your risk of:
- Certain cancers
- Fatty liver problems
- GERD (also called acid reflux)
- Inflammation
- Joint pain
- Sleep apnea
- Urinary incontinence
It also improves your:
- Energy levels
- Immune system
- Self-esteem
- Triglyceride, cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure numbers
What to expect before your first visit
At our center, you have the option of choosing medical weight loss management or bariatric surgery. To learn more about bariatric surgery, watch our free webinar.
Check your insurance coverage
Before your first visit, check with your insurance provider to see what weight loss coverage your plan offers.
See insurance we accept.
Learn more about financing bariatric surgery.
Forms to bring to your first appointment
Please print and bring the following forms with you at your first weight loss consultation. You can also email them in advance to Office@MeritasHealth.com.
Insurance Verification for surgery (if considering surgery)
What to expect at the weight loss clinic
During your first visit, you’ll meet with our medical weight loss doctor and a registered dietitian. You may also meet with our psychologist. The two of you will discuss your weight loss goals, past weight loss efforts and daily habits.
We’ll evaluate your medical history and current level of health. The team checks your vitals (height, weight, BMI, blood pressure) and may order lab work.
This information helps us develop your personalized weight loss program. Our goal is to help you lose weight in a healthy and safe way. We will make a customized nonsurgical or a surgical plan.
You’ll receive some education on nutrition, exercise and behavioral changes, and we’ll schedule follow-up visits. If you choose medical weight loss management, you may participate in our Revive & Thrive Program.
What to expect after your first visit
After your first weight loss appointment, you’ll leave with a personalized plan and clear next steps such as follow-up lab tests. You will begin your tailored diet, and you may have a prescription for weight loss medication. If you decide on surgery and are a smoker, you will start a smoking cessation plan. We will also schedule your next appointment.
Congratulations, you have taken the first steps to a healthier you!
How much weight do I need to lose to see health benefits?
Losing just 5%-10% of your body weight can improve blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and other health risks.
Do I need a referral to schedule a visit?
Possibly. Requirements vary by insurance plan, so check with your provider before scheduling your appointment.
What is the difference between medical weight loss and bariatric surgery?
Medical weight loss uses nutrition, exercise, behavior changes and sometimes medication, while bariatric surgery reduces your stomach size to help you eat less.
Will insurance cover weight loss treatment?
Coverage varies by plan, so it’s important to check your benefits before your first visit.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring the required completed forms listed above, your insurance information and any relevant medical records.
How soon will I start my weight loss plan?
Most patients begin their personalized plan, including diet changes or next steps, right after the first visit.