Boots Online Doctor expands weight loss service with a new 12-month support programme for patients who want to complete treatment
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Boots Online Doctor introduces UK’s first weight loss aftercare programme in response to NICE guidance
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For many, stopping weight loss treatment without follow-up support can lead to rapid weight gain
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Programme features direct access to support from expert clinicians, app-based progress tracking and regular reminders about lifestyle, nutrition and movement
Boots Online Doctor has launched a free, 12-month support programme* for patients after they complete weight loss treatment — the first of its kind from an online healthcare provider in the UK.
The support programme is designed to help people maintain their weight loss results, following the recent publication of National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, which recommends at least 12 months of structured follow-up to support maintaining a healthy weight.
Dr Sam Wellappili, Clinical Lead for the Boots Online Doctor Weight Loss Treatment Service, commented:
“Not everyone who uses weight loss medicines or are considering this route want to stay on them forever, but many people worry that they will put weight back on as soon as they stop. We know that coming off weight loss treatment suddenly, without support, can make it much harder to maintain results, which is why we have designed a programme to give patients the guidance and encouragement they need to help them achieve lasting, long-term success. At Boots Online Doctor we support patients through every step of their weight loss journey – even after they have completed treatment with us.”
Patients on the programme will be able to access unlimited support from Boots Online Doctor clinicians via a secure messaging platform throughout the 12-month programme. They will also receive a monthly email that includes expert information, support and resources tailored to helping people who have stopped weight loss treatment maintain a healthy weight.
Patients will also have access to a wealth of Boots Online Doctor digital resources such as webinars and podcasts that cover everything from nutrition and workouts to mental health and wellbeing advice.
Health and weight can be monitored through the Boots Online Doctor Weight Loss Tracker app**, which uses gamification to motivate people to maintain their goals. For those who prefer face-to-face support, free weigh-ins and pharmacy advice are available at more than 1,500 Boots stores nationwide.
The programme is for Boots Online Doctor patients who have accessed the Weight Loss Treatment Service for at least six months and who have subsequently stopped their treatment.
To help patients who are using weight loss medicines and are considering coming off them, Dr Wellappili shares four key things to consider when stopping or reducing the dose of weight loss treatment:
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“Consult a clinician first — Don’t stop or reduce treatment without speaking to your clinician. They can guide you safely through the process, support you in tapering your dose, and put a clear maintenance plan in place. Without this preparation, sudden changes may lead to rapid weight regain or other unwanted effects.
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“Be aware of appetite changes — Many weight loss treatments work by reducing appetite. Coming off them suddenly can increase hunger, which may make it harder to maintain weight loss.
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“Monitor weight and health markers — Keep track of your weight, activity and nutrition goals. Regular monitoring helps you understand how your body’s responding and spot any patterns.
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“Step up your lifestyle adjustments — Use this transition phase to strengthen your habits around healthy eating, hydration and physical activity. Boots Online Doctor also has a range of resources available to support you.”
Find out more about the Boots Online Doctor Weight Loss Treatment Service*** and its 12-month free aftercare programme here.
*Available to customers who've used the Boots Online Doctor Weight Loss Treatment service for at least 6 consecutive months. The aftercare programme will come into effect 2 months after your final month of treatment and will be available for 12 months thereafter.
** Weight Loss Tracker: our new app to help you track your weight and much more. Download from Apple and Google Play app stores.
***Access to treatment is subject to an online consultation with a clinician to assess suitability. Subject to availability. Charges apply
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For more information, please contact: media.enquiries@boots.co.uk.
About Boots Online Doctor:
Boots Online Doctor is an online health provider, giving patients access to great care through a convenient, private alternative to the NHS for specific areas of primary care that we can manage safely online.
Boots Online Doctor provides access to healthcare advice, prescriptions, online GP services and home test kits for more than 45 conditions, including sexual health, family planning, weight loss, diabetes testing and menopause.
Boots is part of The Boots Group, which is a trusted leader in healthcare, pharmacy and retail. More company information is available on boots-uk.com.