Looking for new ways to best serve our patients, Essentia Health-Fosston is excited to introduce a comprehensive weight management service designed to help people achieve their weight loss and wellness goals.
The robust team includes Kari Gudmundson, a nurse practitioner and certified weight management specialist; certified dietitian and diabetic educator Sarah Wills; and physical therapists Jacob Vossler, Rhonda Breitbach and Peter Flaa. Additional support from our behavioral health specialists and pharmacists is available if needed.
Weight loss has numerous benefits, including — most importantly — improved quality of life. It can prevent or minimize health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and sleep apnea. Patients report higher energy levels and fewer aches and pains.
“This service assists you in setting realistic and tangible goals to help you reach your desired health outcomes. We also place a heavy emphasis on long-term behavior change,” Wills said. “Our team approach offers support and accountability, which improves patient outcomes. We work with the patient to create goals important to them, as we know this will ultimately drive success.”
Weight management at Essentia Health-Fosston offers the following:
- Individualized provider assessment: Each participant undergoes a thorough assessment to understand their unique needs, medical history, lifestyle factors and weight management goals. This assessment forms the foundation for personalized care and tailored interventions.
- Customized nutrition plans: Our experienced dietitians work closely with participants to develop individualized nutrition plans that promote healthy eating habits, portion control and balanced nutrient intake. We emphasize sustainable lifestyle changes rather than restrictive diets.
- Physical activity guidance: Weight management includes guidance on incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines. Our fitness experts provide exercise recommendations suitable for different fitness levels and abilities, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
- Behavioral-modification techniques: We recognize the importance of addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of weight management. We use evidence-based behavioral-modification techniques to help participants develop healthy habits, manage stress and overcome barriers to success.
- Ongoing support and education: We believe ongoing support is crucial for long-term success. Participants receive regular coaching sessions, educational resources and access to support groups to foster motivation, accountability and a sense of community.
- Progress tracking and evaluation: We utilize advanced tools and technologies to monitor participants’ progress, including body composition analysis, weight tracking and other relevant measurements. This allows us to assess outcomes, make necessary adjustments and celebrate achievements.
“We work as a team to address obesity using a patient-centered approach, with an emphasis on long-term health and lifestyle changes,” Gudmundson said. “My goal is to empower you with the tools and support you need to succeed.”
This is another way for Essentia to meet the ever-changing needs of our patients in and around Fosston by providing high-quality weight management services close to home.
To learn more about weight management at Essentia Health-Fosston, or to schedule an appointment, call (218) 435-1212 or log into your MyChart patient portal.
