Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States and contributing to a host of chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Among underserved populations, the burden of obesity is even more severe. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs) serve as vital healthcare providers for these communities, positioning them as critical players in reversing this alarming trend.
In underserved communities, obesity rates far exceed the national average. Factors such as food insecurity, limited access to healthy options, and reduced opportunities for physical activity contribute to this disparity. For example, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), 76% of adult patients at FQHCs are classified as overweight or obese. This population faces unique challenges that require tailored, community-driven approaches to care.
Addressing obesity in underserved communities involves more than individual lifestyle changes—it requires tackling systemic barriers. Food deserts, which lack access to affordable, nutritious foods, are prevalent in low-income areas. Similarly, spaces for exercise are often scarce, further compounding the problem. Additionally, socioeconomic factors, including job instability and lack of transportation, make accessing consistent healthcare services difficult. These barriers create a cycle where obesity becomes both a symptom and a driver of broader health inequities.
Healthcare providers in these settings also face significant challenges. Many FQHCs and CHCs operate under tight resource constraints, with limited staffing and funding to implement comprehensive weight management programs. Moreover, providers often lack specialized training in obesity care, leading to inconsistent approaches and suboptimal outcomes.
Despite these challenges, FQHCs and CHCs have unique strengths that position them to lead in obesity care. These centers are deeply embedded in their communities, fostering trust and accessibility that larger healthcare systems often struggle to achieve. By embracing community-centric approaches, FQHCs and CHCs can provide holistic, patient-centered obesity care.
Such approaches include integrating nutrition counseling, fitness programs, and mental health support into primary care. Patient education is also crucial—empowering individuals with knowledge about healthy eating, physical activity, and the risks of obesity can drive meaningful change. Community partnerships with schools, local organizations, and food banks can create supportive environments for healthy living.
FQHCs and CHCs are uniquely positioned to address the obesity epidemic at scale. With comprehensive care models and the ability to reach underserved populations, these centers can serve as hubs for weight management and prevention programs. Their existing infrastructure allows for the integration of innovative solutions, such as telehealth and remote monitoring, to expand access to care.
Luro Health plays a pivotal role in helping FQHCs and CHCs tackle obesity. By offering turnkey solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing workflows, Luro Health enables these centers to provide advanced obesity care without significant administrative burdens. AI-driven tools help personalize care plans and monitor patient progress, while telehealth capabilities extend the reach of providers. With no upfront cost barriers, Luro Health ensures that even resource-constrained centers can adopt effective obesity management strategies.
Reversing the obesity epidemic in underserved communities is both a challenge and an opportunity. By leveraging their trusted role in these communities, FQHCs and CHCs can lead the charge in reducing obesity rates and improving overall health outcomes. With support from partners like Luro Health, these centers have the tools and strategies needed to create a healthier future for millions of Americans. Together, we can tackle this epidemic and close the health equity gap.
Obesity isn't just a statistic—it's a challenge that impacts millions of lives, particularly in underserved communities. Community Health Centers (CHCs) are uniquely positioned to address this issue head-on. With over 75% of their patient population classified as overweight or obese, these centers are the backbone of our fight against obesity. But how can we support CHCs as they rise to meet the evolving demands of obesity management in the years ahead? Let’s explore how CHCs are gearing up to lead the charge.
The future of obesity management in CHCs is bright, thanks in large part to the integration of artificial intelligence. AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a game-changer in how we approach patient care. Imagine a world where AI-driven tools analyze each patient’s unique medical history, lifestyle, and even genetic information to create a tailor-made weight management plan. This isn’t a far-off dream; it’s happening now, and decision algorithms are being developed and deployed in weight management centers today.
AI's potential to deliver personalized care is enormous. By continuously learning from patient data, AI systems can adjust treatment recommendations in real time, ensuring that care is both effective and sustainable. As these technologies become more sophisticated, CHCs will increasingly rely on them to provide the individualized attention that their patients deserve.
The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for telehealth, pushing it from a convenient option to a necessity. For CHCs, telehealth isn’t just about convenience—it’s about breaking down barriers to care. Whether a patient lives in a rural area or faces mobility issues, telehealth ensures they can still receive the support they need to manage their weight.
As we look to the future, telehealth will continue to play a critical role in obesity management at CHCs. It’s not just about virtual doctor’s visits; it’s about continuous engagement. Remote monitoring, virtual support groups, and regular check-ins via telehealth platforms will keep patients motivated and on track, no matter where they are. This expanded reach is vital for CHCs, particularly in underserved areas where in-person care may be limited(Reversing Obesity FQHCs.
Obesity isn’t just about physical health—it’s deeply intertwined with mental well-being. Depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are common among those struggling with obesity, and ignoring these factors can sabotage even the best weight management programs. That’s why CHCs are increasingly integrating mental health services into their obesity care models.
This holistic approach is key to helping patients achieve long-term success. By offering counseling, stress management, and behavioral therapy alongside traditional weight management services, CHCs can address the psychological barriers that often stand in the way of weight loss. This isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. As CHCs continue to evolve, we’ll see even more comprehensive care models that treat the whole person, not just the number on the scale(Reversing Obesity FQHCs.
No CHC is an island, and the future of obesity management will be built on collaboration within the community and with innovative partners. By partnering with local organizations, schools, community groups, and tech innovators, CHCs can expand their reach and enhance the care they provide. These partnerships aren’t just about sharing resources—they’re about creating a supportive environment where healthy choices are the norm, not the exception.
Consider the potential of partnerships with AI companies or telehealth providers. These collaborations can bring cutting-edge technology to CHCs, enabling them to offer more advanced and effective care. The result? A network of support that empowers patients to take control of their health.
At the heart of every CHC’s mission is a commitment to health equity. This means addressing the social determinants of health—factors like access to healthy food, safe spaces for physical activity, and economic stability—that contribute to obesity. CHCs are uniquely positioned to tackle these issues head-on.
As we move forward, CHCs will play a critical role in advocating for policies that promote health equity. By doing so, they can ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to achieve a healthy weight. The fight against obesity isn’t just about individual choices; it’s about creating a society where healthy options are accessible to all.
Looking Ahead
The road to reversing obesity in underserved communities is challenging, but FQHCs and CHCs are ready to lead the way. With the right tools, partnerships, and commitment to holistic care, they are well-positioned to transform how obesity is managed in the U.S. The future of obesity management in CHCs isn’t just about keeping up with trends—it’s about setting the standard for comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses the full spectrum of health needs.
As we look to 2025 and beyond, CHCs will remain at the forefront of this crucial battle, providing the care and support necessary to turn the tide on obesity and create healthier communities nationwide and bend the obesity curve for the first time in recorded history.
Everyone in healthcare already knows the obvious: obesity is affecting millions of individuals and leading to a myriad of associated health problems. With the prevalence of recent Anti-Obesity Medications (AOMs) such as Wegovy, Zepbound, and others in development, we are at or will soon see a flattening of the obesity growth curve in the United States. This is promising news for a trajectory that many believed would surpass 50% of the US population by 2030. However, many will understand that to transition from a 7% annual growth rate to a 7% annual decline in obesity, a staggering 13% of the patient population must reverse their obesity rate within the same year. The current US population with obesity is 140 million people, this equates to an immense challenge of reversing obesity with just under 20 million people in a single year. There is only major and underserved patient population that can very heavily influence this possibility. With 75% of their patient population classified as overweight or obese, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs) are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in reversing obesity rates in the United States, making them the most critical contributors to achieving this goal.
According to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), 76% of adult patients in FQHCs are either overweight or obese, a figure significantly higher than the national average. This demographic is particularly vulnerable due to numerous factors, including socioeconomic ones that often limit access to food in food deserts or environments that limit physical activity. Weight management is an incredibly complex issue that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Leading health system have organized entire weight management programs that include primary care, nutrition, fitness, health coaching, mental health support among other services to ensure patients receive holistic support. These programs are costly to organize, operate, and maintain as a result very few FQHCs and CHCs operate them. Give their patient population, it’s crucial for this to change. FQHCs and CHCs are well-positioned to implement effective obesity management and prevention strategies due to their established trust and strong presence in the community.
The patient population of FQHCs is diverse, with significant proportions of racial and ethnic minorities, who are disproportionately affected by obesity. These centers provide comprehensive primary care services and are adept at managing chronic conditions, making them ideal settings for integrated obesity care. The structured environment of FQHCs supports the implementation of evidence-based interventions tailored to the specific needs of their communities.
Implementing obesity management programs in FQHCs and CHCs not only improves patient health outcomes but also presents an opportunity to generate revenue for the FQHC and CHC. Effective obesity interventions can reduce the long-term healthcare costs associated with treating obesity-related conditions. Additionally, FQHCs and CHCs have access to CPT codes that either directly or through partnerships, can be utilized to support patients in their journey.
To support FQHCs and CHCs in their fight against obesity, we must advocate for policies that provide adequate funding and resources. Healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members must collaborate to ensure these centers can continue their vital work. Join us in supporting FQHCs and CHCs to create a healthier future for all. The high prevalence of overweight and obesity among FQHC and CHC patients underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions within these centers. By leveraging their unique position and adopting comprehensive care models, FQHCs can significantly impact the obesity epidemic in the United States. This approach not only improves the health and well-being of their patients but also sets a precedent for other healthcare providers nationwide. Through strategic partnerships, patient education, and integrated care, FQHCs can lead the way in reducing obesity rates and enhancing the quality of life for millions of Americans.
References
Projected U.S. State-Level Prevalence of Adult Obesity and Severe Obesity
Adult Obesity Prevalence Remains High; Support for Prevention and Treatment Needed
The Millman study highlights the importance of Obesity Centers of Excellence (“CoE”) as a strategy to align incentives for providers and payers This post is a response and adaptation of the strategy targeting care delivery centers, specifically Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).
Obesity is a growing health problem in the United States. It is a complex issue that comes with increased risk of many other serious health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, and mental health issues. The problem is getting worse; the percentage of U.S. adults who are obese increased from 30.5% in 2000 to 41.9% in 2020. Patient populations served by FQHC are disproportionately impacts, with more than 70% of patients requiring obesity intervention.
Obesity has an economic, and social impact. The rise in obesity is causing people to be less productive at work and increasing the costs of healthcare, which affects both businesses and the overall healthcare system.
To tackle this problem, the idea of creating a Center of Excellence for obesity is becoming a mechanism for overcoming the complex relationship between provider, payer, and patient and ensuring outcomes are optimized for both short term gains and long term behavior change.
Centers of excellence (“CoEs) are specialized programs within healthcare institutions which supply exceptionally high concentrations of expertise and related resources centered on particular medical areas and delivered in a comprehensive, interdisciplinary fashion—afford many advantages for healthcare providers and the populations they serve.
Setting up a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity helps tackle the complex issue of managing obesity in a structured way. These centers provide complete care that goes beyond just treating immediate symptoms. They focus on helping people make long-term changes to their lifestyles, manage their medications effectively, and prevent future health problems. This type of care doesn’t just treat obesity; it also helps prevent other related health issues that can be expensive and hard to treat.
A well-run CoE can offer several important benefits:
Setting up a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity in a healthcare system can be very demanding in terms of resources and may not be possible for every organization. This is why forming partnerships is so important. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are great partners for this work. FQHCs are community-based health providers funded by the HRSA Health Center Program to offer primary care in areas that don't have enough services. They are experienced in handling chronic diseases and providing comprehensive services like education, counseling, and preventive care.
By incorporating the CoE model, FQHCs can enhance their ability to care for obesity. This partnership allows them to:
To make a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity work through Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or similar partners, a few important steps need to be taken:
There's an urgent need to tackle obesity in a lasting and effective way, which is why creating a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity is a timely to ensure cost containment and outcomes. With organizations that have limited resource but a high incidence rate of obesity, as the case with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), partnership can offer specialized and effective care for their patient population without any additional overhead. In most cases it even translates to additional revenue for the FQHCs. Working together not only improves the quality of care but also creates a lasting way to manage obesity on a large scale. By using the strengths FQHCs and their partner companies, the healthcare system can make great progress in fighting the obesity problem, decrease the financial impact on payers, which simultaneously improves patient outcomes.
Updated
A Case for FQHCs to Operate an Obesity Center of Excellence
The Millman study highlights the importance of Obesity Centers of Excellence (“CoE”) as a strategy to align incentives for providers and payers. This post is a response and adaptation of the strategy targeting care delivery centers, specifically Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).
Obesity is a growing health problem in the United States. It is a complex issue that comes with increased risk of many other serious health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, and mental health issues. The problem is getting worse; the percentage of U.S. adults who are obese increased from 30.5% in 2000 to 41.9% in 2020. Patient populations served by FQHCs are disproportionately impacted, with more than 70% of patients requiring obesity intervention.
Obesity has an economic and social impact. The rise in obesity is causing people to be less productive at work and increasing the costs of healthcare, which affects both businesses and the overall healthcare system.
To tackle this problem, the idea of creating a Center of Excellence for obesity is becoming a mechanism for addressing the complex relationship between provider, payer, and patient and ensuring outcomes are optimized for both short-term gains and long-term behavior change.
Centers of Excellence (“CoEs”) are specialized programs within healthcare institutions which supply exceptionally high concentrations of expertise and related resources centered on particular medical areas and delivered in a comprehensive, interdisciplinary fashion—afford many advantages for healthcare providers and the populations they serve.
Setting up a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity helps tackle the complex issue of managing obesity in a structured way. These centers provide complete care that goes beyond just treating immediate symptoms. They focus on helping people make long-term changes to their lifestyles, manage their medications effectively, and prevent future health problems. This type of care doesn’t just treat obesity; it also helps prevent other related health issues that can be expensive and hard to treat.
A well-run CoE can offer several important benefits:
Setting up a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity in a healthcare system can be very demanding in terms of resources and may not be possible for every organization. This is why forming partnerships is so important. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are great partners for this work. FQHCs are community-based health providers funded by the HRSA Health Center Program to offer primary care in areas that don't have enough services. They are experienced in handling chronic diseases and providing comprehensive services like education, counseling, and preventive care.
By incorporating the CoE model, FQHCs can enhance their ability to care for obesity. This partnership allows them to:
To make a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity work through Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or similar partners, a few important steps need to be taken:
There's an urgent need to tackle obesity in a lasting and effective way, which is why creating a Center of Excellence (CoE) for obesity is a timely strategy to ensure cost containment and outcomes. With organizations that have limited resources but a high incidence rate of obesity, as is the case with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), partnerships can offer specialized and effective care for their patient population without any additional overhead. In most cases, it even translates to additional revenue for the FQHCs. Working together not only improves the quality of care but also creates a lasting way to manage obesity on a large scale. By using the strengths of FQHCs and their partner companies, the healthcare system can make great progress in fighting the obesity problem, decrease the financial impact on payers, and simultaneously improve patient outcomes.
Sources:
1. https://www.milliman.com/-/media/milliman/pdfs/2024-articles/2-5-24_employers-and-targeted-obesity-care_center-of-excellence.ashx
2.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10368799/#:~:text=According%20to%20CDC%2C%20the%20prevalence,flora%20may%20contribute%20to%20obesity.
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