Local doctor calls for a change in obesity treatment protocol
LEWISBURG, WV (WVNS) – Obesity can lead to many different conditions, like heart disease, lung disease, and certain cancers, among others.
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Quite a few of these diseases are ranked in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s top 10 causes of death in the U.S.
The CDC defines obesity as a chronic disease. Because of this definition, Dr. Lauren Miller of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine told 59News that it should be handled as a disease, specifically through how obesity medications are prescribed.
“What we hope is that these medications are made available to our patients, if the doctor or the patient think they’re right for them,” said Dr. Miller.
According to Dr. Miller, currently medical treatments for obesity depend on the insurance companies. She explained that the insurance companies normally only cover medications for obesity if a patient develops Type 2 Diabetes.
However, if the use of these medications becomes more of a doctor-and-patient type of determination, Dr. Miller said it could become less taxing on patients’ wallets, as well as their health.
Dr. Miller reported the disease accounts for upwards of $170 billion annually in medical expenditures for patients.
“So, if we sort of put a little bit of an investment in our patients to treat this condition, maybe it will decrease the cost on our patients when they end up with other conditions or problems from obesity itself,” said Dr. Miller.
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Medication is not the only way to overcome obesity – there are natural ways to do so that include major changes to lifestyle and diet. Doctors are also able to discuss these changes to help their patients overcome obesity this way.
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