Few providers have the resources or time to implement guidelines for managing overweight and obese patients, according to Louis J. Aronne, MD, FACP. To overcome this obstacle, Dr. Aronne and other experts in obesity and weight-management care developed BMIQ (www.bmiq.com), a website that allows healthcare providers to add a comprehensive, office-based program to their medical practice.
The BMIQ program registers patients during office visits and guides physicians on delivering obesity treatment modules. Patients are then given expanded session materials online and are guided to apply for sessions and plan meals as part of their daily routine. Patients can track their weight, food, and activity goals online. They are also encouraged to schedule their next office visit in order to participate in their next module.
Enhancing Implementation
“BMIQ can serve as a tool for patients and clinicians to enhance the implementation of evidence-based obesity management,” Dr. Aronne says. “For comprehensive obesity management to be effective, clinicians need a program that is easy to implement, flexible to use, and supports patients outside of the office setting.” The BMIQ Professionals Program accomplishes this mission for a low monthly subscription. Subscribers receive their own branded website along with other program components, such as complete program materials for clinicians and patients, including session guides, patient lessons, and references. They also receive a complete 20-session program that can be delivered individually in the office setting, over the phone, or in a group setting.
In addition, subscribers receive video tutorials on getting started and delivering each session as well as comprehensive reports for each patient who completes their online assessment. BMIQ provides integrated patient tracking, which allows clinicians to review their patients’ progress. The website also gives them access to weight logs, food and activity logs, and other relevant information regarding weight loss. Information is also provided on obesity medications to consider in the course of treatment, notes Dr. Aronne.
A Welcome Addition
Dr. Aronne says the BMIQ website provides a roadmap for clinicians and patients to follow so that they can maximize their weight loss efforts using evidence-based guideline recommendations. “Patients can benefit because they’re receiving evidence-based interventions from their healthcare provider in a meaningful, sustainable way,” he says. Dr. Aronne adds that the supporting materials are detailed and can be reviewed in real time with patients during each office visit. BMIQ also provides engaging videos, articles, and resources for providers and patients as well as reminders and alerts to increase compliance.
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