HSN’s Medical Weight Management Program is a 26 week non-surgical (medically supervised) program designed to help participants achieve a healthier lifestyle and lose weight by changing behaviours. The program uses a 900 calorie meal replacement (Optifast®) for 12 weeks with a 5 week transition period back to food. Group classes offer support and provide education on healthy living, proper eating, and physical activity. Participants are followed by a bariatric team that consists of a physician, dietitian, social worker, medical secretaries, and a physiotherapist.
Who is Eligible?
- A physician referral to the Ontario Bariatric Network (OBN)
- 18 years of age or older
- Body Mass Index greater than or equal to 35
- Body Mass Index greater than or equal to 30 but less than 35. With at least one of the following obesity-related health issues
- Complicated Type 2 diabetes
- Poorly controlled high blood pressure
- Inter-cranial idiopathic hypertension
Once you have been referred to the OBN, you will be required to attend an information session. The bariatric centre will also ask you to receive medical clearance for exercise by your primary care provider. An initial assessment with the team will be then scheduled to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the program.
What is the program commitment?
The total length of the program is 1 year. To be enrolled in the program, you must be able to attend weekly 60 minute group classes, for a 6 month period. After the 6 months, you will be encouraged to attend monthly support group for 5 months. You must also attend any scheduled appointments with the nurse practitioner, and attend medical appointments up to 1 year.
Participants in the program can attend group classes and medical appointments at the Bariatric Regional Assessment and Treatment Centre in Sudbury. Ontario Telehealth Network (OTN) options are offered on a limited basis in the Northeast region.
How much does the Optifast® cost?
The cost of the Optifast ® is approximately $930 for patients in the Sudbury groups and $930.00 plus shipping and handling for patients at OTN sites. This cost is not covered by private insurance plans, ODSP or OHIP.
Resources
How to Refer to the Ontario Bariatric Network
In order to refer a patient to the OBN, physicians must first register and log on to the OBN’s Online Referral Systems. Patients can only be referred to one of the programs. http://www.ontariobariatricnetwork.ca/referring-physicians
Contact Us
Bariatric Regional Assessment & Treatment Centre
Sudbury Outpatient Centre
865 Regent Street
Sudbury, ON
705-671-5611
Related Links
http://www.ontariobariatricnetwork.ca