Name of the Procedure:

Face-to-face behavioral counseling for obesity, 15 minutes (G0447)

Summary

Face-to-face behavioral counseling for obesity involves a healthcare professional working directly with the patient to address lifestyle and behavioral changes needed to manage obesity. The counseling session lasts for 15 minutes, focusing on diet, physical activity, and behavioral strategies.

Purpose

The procedure addresses obesity, aiming to help patients achieve sustained weight loss and improved overall health. The goals include educating the patient on healthy lifestyle choices, developing personalized diet and exercise plans, and providing support for behavior modification.

Indications

• Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher
• Overweight individuals with associated health risks such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease
• Patients motivated to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required.
• Patients may be asked to keep a food and activity diary before the session.
• Initial medical and psychological assessments to tailor the counseling approach.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: Review of patient's medical history, current health status, and weight loss goals.
2. Behavioral Counseling Session:
   • Discussion of the patient's current diet and physical activity levels.
   • Identification of barriers to weight loss and strategies to overcome them.
   • Development of a personalized action plan including dietary changes, physical activity recommendations, and behavior modification techniques.
3. Goal Setting: Establishing realistic short-term and long-term goals.
4. Follow-Up Plan: Scheduling future sessions to monitor progress and adjust the plan as needed.

Tools used:

• Educational materials (pamphlets, charts, apps)
• Counseling techniques (motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral strategies)

Duration

Each session typically lasts 15 minutes.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Primary care office
• Hospital wellness center

Personnel

• Primary care physician
• Registered dietitian
• Behavioral therapist

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks associated with counseling itself
• Potential for frustration or lack of motivation if expected weight loss is not achieved
• Management involves ongoing support and potential adjustment of goals and strategies

Benefits

• Improved understanding of healthy lifestyle choices
• Gradual and sustained weight loss
• Reduced risk of obesity-related complications (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
• Enhanced overall well-being and quality of life

Recovery

• No recovery time needed
• Immediate incorporation of lifestyle changes
• Follow-up appointments for ongoing support and evaluation

Alternatives

• Pharmacotherapy for weight loss: Medications may assist but can have side effects.
• Bariatric surgery: More invasive option with significant risks and recovery time.
• Group counseling or support groups: Provides peer support but less personalized.
• Self-guided weight loss programs: May be less effective without professional guidance.

Patient Experience

• Generally well-tolerated without pain or discomfort.
• Patients may feel motivated and supported during and after sessions.
• Continuous encouragement and problem-solving to help maintain lifestyle changes.
• Regular feedback and adjustment of plans to optimize outcomes.