This course addresses critical needs in obesity management by exploring common biases, misconceptions, and patient concerns that can lead to underdiagnosis, undertreatment, and low patient adherence. By addressing the following practice gaps, we can improve healthcare providers' ability to effectively diagnose, treat, and support patients with obesity. This program provides comprehensive education on the complex causes of obesity, evidence-based treatment options, and effective patient communication strategies to ensure that recent advancements in obesity treatment translate into effective, patient-centered care.
Module 1: Breaking Down Barriers: Addressing Bias and Stigma
Are you struggling with effective communication, addressing stigma and bias, and navigating cultural and systemic biases? This module will focus on recognizing and addressing biases and stigma related to obesity, including perceptions and patients' self-perceptions.
Module 2: Separating Fact from Fiction: Debunking Common Myths
Tackle common misconceptions about anti-obesity medications, including their effectiveness, potential for dependence, and intended use. This module will provide accurate information to help you make informed decisions.
Module 3: Managing Concerns and Improving Adherence
Delve into concerns related to anti-obesity medications, including side effects, muscle mass loss, and access barriers. It will provide guidance on mitigating these concerns, ensuring safe and effective treatment, and exploring alternative solutions to support patients' weight management journeys.
Nonmember: $150 | Informed Member: $120 | Engaged Member: $90 | Fellow, Resident, Student Member $75
6/30/2026
6/30/2027
Upon completion of this program, participants will be able to:
- Implement effective strategies to address stigma and bias in obesity management.
- Accurately address common misconceptions about anti-obesity medications.
- Develop patient-centered approaches to manage concerns and improve adherence to obesity treatments.
This educational program is designed for HCPs, including primary care physicians and advanced practice professionals, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, as well as endocrinologists who care for patients with obesity.
Statement of Need
In the last ten years, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved multiple anti-obesity medications (AOMs) for use in the US. These new FDA-approved AOMs have sparked a surge in demand and have been met with a wave of news articles, opinion pieces, backlash, and criticism on social media, challenging the safety, effectiveness, and affordability of these treatments. Heathcare providers (HCPs) and patients are exposed to false information, misunderstandings, and prejudiced views about obesity AOMs on social media and other platforms. This exposure can distort their comprehension and perception of obesity, possibly resulting in delayed or unsuitable treatment approaches, stigmatization, and reduced quality of life, highlighting the need for clear, compassionate, and scientifically grounded communication in healthcare. Given the potential for misinformation to lead to delayed or inappropriate treatment and reduced patient quality of life, there is a pressing need for comprehensive, evidence-based education programs that will improve patient outcomes and foster a more informed and empathetic approach to obesity management.
Jaime Almandoz, MD, MBA, FTOS, MRCPI
Associate Professor
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, Texas
Monisha Chadha, MD, FACE, CDCES
Section Chief, Endocrinology and Metabolism
Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center
Houma, Louisiana
Jennifer Clements, PharmD, FCCP, FADCES, BCPS, CDCES, BCACP, BC-ADM
Clinical Professor and Director of Pharmacy Education
USC School of Medicine Greenville
Greenville, South Carolina
Maria A Mogollon APRN-FBC and Internal Medicine Foreign MD
Diabetes and Obesity Specialist
Diabetes APRN at Devoted Medical
Obesity Specialist at Private Practice
Assistant Clinical Professor at Miami Regional University