Weight Management

Obesity Medicine

Our caring team provides medical and surgical options, nutrition education and ongoing support to help you manage obesity and improve your health at every step.

At TidalHealth, our team is here to help you achieve your health goals with a comprehensive and compassionate approach to treating obesity. Obesity is a complex, chronic disease that goes beyond eating habits or physical activity. It involves an imbalance in the body’s energy storage signals, affecting overall health in many ways. Our specialists understand the genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors that can contribute to obesity, and we know that every person’s needs are unique.

We offer a range of treatment options, including medical management, nutrition education, medications, lifestyle coaching, and, when appropriate, surgical weight loss treatments. It is important to discuss your weight concerns early, especially if your BMI is over 25, to help delay or prevent complications and work toward a healthier weight.

Our medical weight loss program is led by board-certified professionals who work closely with you to develop a personal plan. This may include supervised low-calorie diets, physical activity guidance, and behavioral support. As part of your care, you will have access to education, practical tools, and the encouragement you need to make and maintain lasting lifestyle changes.

For those who have tried to lose weight through traditional methods without lasting success, our team also offers bariatric surgery options. We walk with you at every step, from initial consultations and education to ongoing support and follow-up care. Our surgeon-led program uses advanced approaches to help eligible candidates lose weight safely and keep it off for the long term. We are committed to supporting you and your family with the guidance, resources, and kindness you deserve.

Our Commitment to Quality
At TidalHealth, we are dedicated to providing safe, high-quality care for people seeking help with obesity. Our commitment starts with our caring staff and experienced surgeons, and we continually strive to improve patient outcomes through teamwork and innovation.

Recognitions and Distinctions

  • TidalHealth has been distinguished as a Comprehensive Center under the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), a joint program with the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
  • Our hospitals have earned distinction as Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery by various Blue Cross Blue Shield programs, recognizing our focus on patient safety and quality outcomes.
  • TidalHealth was the first on the Eastern Shore to be named a Center of Excellence by the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. We have also been recognized as a Bariatric Institute of Quality by Aetna.
  • We were pioneers in offering bariatric surgery on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, setting high standards for patient care in our region.

What is obesity medicine?
Obesity medicine is a specialty focused on diagnosing, treating, and supporting people living with obesity. At TidalHealth, our team uses a comprehensive approach that includes medical care, nutrition education, lifestyle coaching, and treatment planning tailored to your needs.

When should I seek treatment for obesity?
If your body mass index (BMI) is over 25, or if you have struggled with weight and have not had lasting success with diet and exercise, we encourage you to talk with your healthcare provider about options. Early intervention can help prevent complications and guide you to a healthier weight.

What treatment options are available through TidalHealth?
Our team offers a variety of treatment options, including:

  • Medical management and evaluation
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Medications if appropriate
  • Lifestyle coaching and behavioral support
  • Surgical weight loss options for eligible patients

Am I a candidate for weight loss surgery?
Weight loss surgery may be considered if you have a BMI of 40 or greater, or a BMI over 35 with certain health conditions related to obesity, and if traditional methods have not helped you achieve or maintain weight loss. A conversation with your healthcare provider and our team can help determine if surgery is right for you based on your overall health and personal goals.

What support does TidalHealth provide for patients?
Support and education are a major part of our program. Our team offers patient education classes, support groups, pre- and post-operative counseling, and ongoing resources to help patients and their families at every stage of their care.