Obesity
Provider Type
- Physicians
- Participating Physician Groups (PPG)
- Hospitals
- Ancillary
Obesity is defined as an excess of body fat. Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body weight relative to height. BMI can be used to determine if people are at a healthy weight, overweight or obese. An adult member whose BMI is 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight and a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. Children of the same age and sex, with a BMI at or above the 85th percentile and lower than the 95th percentile is defined as overweight. Considerations for obesity is having a BMI at the 95th percentile or above.
Obesity is a treatable medical condition. Treatment of this condition varies depending on the severity of the members' condition.
Coverage
The primary care physician (PCP) or attending provider may recommend a diet plan for the member to follow and, if medically appropriate, the PCP may refer the member to a dietitian or a provider who specializes in weight-loss management. These services are covered as specialist consultation services. In cases of extreme morbid obesity, other treatments, such as pharmaceutical and surgical services, may be covered.
Health Net does not provide coverage for diet programs, such as Weight Watchers®. Gym memberships and exercise programs are also not covered under Medi-Cal.
Resources
Medi-Cal members are eligible to receive weight control resources through the Health Education Department. Resources include:
- Fit Families for Life program - Mailed educational self-guided resource with nutrition tips, exercise band and cookbook to help families and children eat healthy and stay active. Physical activity videos are available online.
- Healthy Habits for Healthy People Program - Nutrition and physical activity resource for older adults. Includes a workbook, cookbook and exercise band. Physical activity videos are available online.
Providers may refer members interested in these resources via the Fit Families for Life Referral form – Health Net (PDF), Fit Families for Life Referral form – Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley (PDF) or Fit Families for Life Referral form – CalViva Health (PDF). Contact the Health Education Department for more information.
The following information does not apply to Medi-Cal
All participating physician groups (PPGs) or attending providers offer patient education programs, including weight management. For more information regarding Health Net's weight loss interactive tools, discounts and online education programs, refer to the Decision Power® program.
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