The Hims & Hers Weight Loss Medication Super Bowl Ad: A NJ Bariatric Doctor's Perspective
Here at New Jersey Bariatric Center® our team has been discussing the Hims & Hers “Sick of the System” Super Bowl weight loss ad. The ad criticizes our healthcare system’s barriers to obesity treatment, including high medication costs and limited insurance coverage. While its message about accessibility resonates – with Wegovy®'s out of pockets reaching $1,349 for a 28 day supply – the ad overlooks three crucial elements of successful weight loss: board-certified physician care, medication safety and professional nutrition support.
Our weight loss patients in New Jersey, along with many online communities, are grappling with the realities of GLP-1 medications like Wegovy® and Zepbound®. While these breakthrough treatments can significantly improve health outcomes, our patients and people on forums like Reddit share mounting concerns about accessibility. One Reddit user wrote: "My insurance coverage just changed - now I have to pay $700 instead of $30," while another wrote, "Should I switch to compounded alternatives?" These stories highlight a critical need to understand that successful weight loss requires more than just medication access. It calls for comprehensive medical supervision and support.
If you're thinking about starting medications like Wegovy®, Zepbound®, or compounded versions of Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, here's what you should know:
Find the Right Medical Support
When choosing a weight loss program, it's crucial to understand who will be managing your care. Many telehealth and medspa companies advertise "healthcare providers" for treatment, but often you may never see this provider or only communicate via text with them. It’s important to confirm the identity of the healthcare provider you're receiving care from and their medical background, qualifications and years of experience treating and counseling weight loss patients.
Doctors Over Digital: The Benefits of Local Weight Loss Care Here in New Jersey
While telehealth offers convenience, there are distinct advantages to working with a weight loss doctor right here in New Jersey. Our local presence means you can meet face-to-face with your healthcare team whenever needed. Getting personal support during your journey, and having immediate access to care if questions or concerns arise are key benefits. And, if telehealth is preferred, New Jersey Bariatric Center® offers it also with the back-up security of having a local physician in NJ if needed.
Nutrition Plans by NJ Registered Dietitians
Our Registered Dietitian’s play a valuable role in our medical weight loss program. They meet one-on-one with our patients to craft personalized nutrition and meal plans that fit their lifestyles. With monthly classes on nutrition and support group meetings, patients have the resources they need. Our nutrition and meals plans are truly personalized through one-one conversations, not from clicking boxes of interest on a form.
Understand Compounded Weight Loss Medications
When it comes to compounded weight loss medications, it's important to note that they aren't FDA-approved. While many compounded medications can be effective, they require extra due diligence. We encourage you to thoroughly research both the prescribing provider and the manufacturing facility to ensure they maintain high safety standards.
The Power of Comprehensive Care
At the New Jersey Bariatric Center®, we've found that sustainable weight loss comes from a holistic approach. While GLP-1 medications like Zepbound® and Wegovy® are powerful tools, they work best as part of a comprehensive program. Our approach combines:
- Monthly check-ins with your doctor
- FDA-approved prescription medications and injections
- Personalized nutrition guidance
- Exercise recommendations
- Lifestyle modification strategies
- Ongoing support and education
From our more than 10 years of experience treating people in New Jersey with weight loss medications, we know what works. This approach gives you the best foundation for reaching and maintaining your healthiest weight. Our goal isn't just to work with you lose weight – it's to give you the tools, knowledge, and support to transform your health for the long term.
