‘Committed
to Kids’
MGHS initiates medically supervised Weight Management program
to help youth and their families control weight and enjoy healthier
living
A recent national survey revealed the painful
fact that 30 percent of our nation’s children are overweight
or at risk for obesity. These figures more than doubled in one
generation. Overweight young people are at increased risk for
a host of related health problems, including heart disease, stroke,
diabetes and certain types of cancer.
Marquette General Health System believes strongly in the
old adage, “An
ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” With that in mind, it’s
unveiling a medically supervised pediatric weight management program for young
people called “Committed to Kids,” a service of the newly created
Marquette General Weight Management.
The program, designed for young people between the ages of 7 and 17, seeks
to help those battling weight problems who may need help getting motivated
to make changes leading to healthier living. The first session will begin
in April, with additional sessions beginning quarterly. Patients must see
their
physician and have lab work done prior to admission.
Although new to the Upper Peninsula, “Committed to Kids” has been
helping overweight children for 15 years. It’s nationally recognized
as one of the few successful prevention and treatment programs for childhood
obesity in the United States.
The key to success is a medically supervised multi-disciplinary approach.
The MGH program involves a pediatric cardiologist, a pediatrician, registered
nurse,
registered dietitian, behavioral health specialist, recreational therapist,
and a fitness instructor contracted through the YMCA. Other important elements
are the involvement of family members and a recommended one-year commitment.
Upon entry into the program, the child receives a comprehensive assessment
by the “Committed to Kids” team. Based on this assessment, individual
goals are set.
The program involves weekly group meetings consisting of educational sessions,
fitness activities and behavioral discussions. Following 10 weeks, a re-assessment
will be done and new goals will be adopted.
“The team will accompany the child every step of the way to help them reach
their goals,” said Dr.
James Christiansen, a board-certified pediatric
cardiologist on staff at Marquette General who, along with board-certified internal
medicine specialist/pediatrician Dr.
John Bartlett, will oversee the program. “We
will continue to offer support after the child completes the program.”
Added Sally Davis, Program Director of Marquette General Weight Management: “An
individualized approach, conducted in a group setting, is a hallmark of the ‘Committed
to Kids’ success. The program focuses on the total child, improving a
child’s physical and emotional health.”
According to Davis, weight loss is a by-product of the changes a child experiences
as he or she learns to make healthier lifestyle choices.
“Because these change take time,” Davis said, “we strongly
encourage a one-year commitment from participants and their families.”
A physician referral is required for the “Committed to Kids” program.
For more information or to sign up for “Committed to Kids,” call
Marquette General Weight Management at 906-225-6955.
