Weight and Internal Medicine

What is Internal Medicine? What is an Internist?

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From the American College of Physicians, Internal Medicine physicians are specialists who apply scientific knowledge and clinical expertise to the diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care of adults across the spectrum from health to complex illness.  Internal Medicine physicians are often called "Internists" which should not be confused with a medical intern.  (A medical intern is a physician who is starting the first year of training after medical school.)  Internists have completed three years of residency training.

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What is Weight Medicine/Obesity Medicine physician?

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Weight medicine is officially known as obesity medicine and less commonly referred to as bariatric medicine.  In short, obesity medicine physicians are the experts in non-surgical sustained weight loss.

 

From the Obesity Medicine Association:

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For many people, seeing an obesity doctor or health care provider is more effective than any other attempts at weight loss. Self-help and diet books may not lead to significant or sustained weight loss. Obesity medicine clinicians are specially trained to treat obesity and obesity-related conditions using evidence-based approaches.

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Obesity medicine clinicians treat obesity as a disease. Because so many different factors contribute to obesity, obesity medicine clinicians develop personalized treatment plans comprised of nutrition, physical activity, behavior therapy, and medication.