Who is a Good Candidate for Medical Weight Loss?

Yes, you may be a good candidate for medical weight loss if you have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Candidates should also be ready to make lifestyle changes alongside treatment and have realistic goals about their weight loss expectations.

This article will help you understand who qualifies for medical weight loss programs, what BMI requirements matter, and whether this type of treatment might work for you.

Understanding Medical Weight Loss Programs

Medical weight loss is different from what you might try on your own. These programs connect you with healthcare professionals who can prescribe medications, monitor your progress, and adjust your plan based on how your body responds.

The U.S. medical weight loss market reached $33.8 billion in 2024, more than doubling from 2022. This growth happened because more people are looking for help with weight management, and new medications have made treatment more accessible.

Here in Lee’s Summit, we see people from all walks of life who want support with their weight loss goals. Some have tried dieting on their own without success. Others have health conditions that make losing weight harder.

Want to learn more about medical weight loss? Our team in Lee’s Summit would be happy to answer your questions. Book a consultation today.

Do I Qualify for Weight Loss Injections?

Weight loss injections have become popular in recent years. According to data from 2025, about 12% of U.S. adults have tried a GLP-1 medication to manage their weight. These medications work by affecting your appetite and how full you feel after eating.

To qualify for weight loss injections, you usually need to meet certain criteria. Most healthcare providers look at your BMI first. If your BMI is 30 or above, you typically qualify. If your BMI is between 27 and 29, you may still qualify if you have weight-related health problems.

The most common weight-related conditions that help you qualify include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Sleep apnea
• Heart disease

Our team evaluates each person individually because everyone’s situation is different. Some people respond better to certain treatments than others.

Thinking about trying weight loss injections? We can help you figure out if it’s right for you. Contact us to set up a time to chat.

What BMI Do You Need for Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is one of the most talked-about weight loss medications right now. The FDA approved it for chronic weight management in people who meet specific criteria.

For semaglutide, the BMI requirements are clear. You need a BMI of 30 or higher, which falls into the obese category. If your BMI is between 27 and 29.9, you can still qualify, but you need at least one weight-related health condition.

Here’s a quick look at BMI categories:

Your healthcare provider will calculate your BMI during your first visit. This calculation uses your height and weight to estimate body fat. Keep in mind that BMI is just one tool. Your overall health matters too.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 40% of adults in the U.S. were classified as obese from August 2021 to August 2023. This shows how common weight struggles are in our communities here in the Kansas City area.

If you’re in the Kansas City area and curious about your options, schedule a consultation with us. We’re here to help.

Can Anyone Get Weight Loss Injections?

Not everyone can get weight loss injections, even if they meet the BMI requirements. Your medical history plays a big role in whether these treatments are safe for you.

Some people should not take weight loss medications. You may not qualify if you have:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
• A history of pancreatitis
• Severe gastrointestinal disease
• If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• Allergies to the medication ingredients

Your age also matters. Most weight loss medications are approved for adults 18 and older. Some medications have been approved for adolescents aged 12 and up, but this requires careful evaluation.

We always review your complete medical history before recommending any treatment. This helps us keep you safe and find the approach that will work best for your body.

What Are Requirements for Medical Weight Loss?

Medical weight loss programs ask for more than just meeting a BMI number. You need to be ready to make real changes in your daily life.

Most programs require you to commit to:

• Regular appointments for monitoring
• Following a reduced-calorie eating plan
• Increasing your physical activity
• Tracking your progress
• Being honest about any side effects

Data from clinical trials shows that people lose more weight when they combine medication with lifestyle changes. One study found that patients lost 10-15% of their body weight over 6-12 months when they followed their program consistently.

You should also have realistic expectations. Weight loss takes time. Most people see gradual changes over several months, not overnight results.

Our Kansas City clients often tell us that having support makes a big difference. You don’t have to do this alone.

Ready to take the next step? Request a consultation and let’s talk about what might work best for you.

Is Medical Weight Loss Right for Me?

This question matters because starting a medical weight loss program is a commitment. Let’s talk about who tends to do well with these programs.

Good candidates for medical weight loss usually have:

• Tried losing weight through diet and exercise without long-term success
• A BMI that meets the requirements
• Weight-related health conditions that could improve with weight loss
• The motivation to stick with the program
• The ability to attend regular follow-up appointments

You might not be the best candidate if:

• You’re looking for a quick fix
• You’re not ready to change eating habits
• You have medical conditions that make treatment unsafe
• You can’t commit to regular monitoring

According to the Obesity Medicine Association, more than 2% of U.S. adults took a GLP-1 for weight loss in 2024. Many more take these medications for other health conditions like diabetes. This shows that these treatments are becoming more accepted as a valid option for people who need help.

Women between ages 50 and 64 make up about one-fifth of people using these medications. This age group often faces hormonal changes that make weight loss harder through diet and exercise alone.

Have questions? Our team loves talking about this stuff. Reach out anytime.

Who Should Not Take Weight Loss Injections?

Safety comes first. Certain groups of people should avoid weight loss injections because of health risks.

You should not take weight loss injections if you have:

• A history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
• Type 1 diabetes
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Severe kidney problems
• Active gallbladder disease
• A history of severe allergic reactions to the medication

Pregnant women should not use weight loss medications. If you’re planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about stopping the medication beforehand. The effects of these drugs during pregnancy haven’t been fully studied.

People who are breastfeeding should also avoid these medications. We don’t know if the drugs pass into breast milk or how they might affect a baby.

If you’re taking certain other medications, weight loss injections might not be safe. This includes insulin and other drugs that lower blood sugar. Your provider needs to know about all medications you take.

Understanding Your Health Conditions and Weight Loss

Weight-related health conditions make medical weight loss programs more appropriate for some people. These conditions often improve when you lose weight.

The most common weight-related conditions include:

• Type 2 diabetes, which affects how your body processes blood sugar
• High blood pressure, which strains your heart and blood vessels
• High cholesterol, which increases your risk of heart disease
• Sleep apnea, which causes breathing problems during sleep
• Joint problems, especially in knees and hips

According to the World Obesity Federation, more than 1 billion people live with obesity as of 2024. By 2035, projections suggest that 1.53 billion people will be affected by obesity worldwide.

These numbers show that weight struggles affect people everywhere. You’re not alone if you’re dealing with these issues here in Lee’s Summit.

Losing even 5-10% of your body weight can improve these conditions. Many of our clients find that their blood pressure medications get reduced or their blood sugar becomes easier to control after losing weight.

If you’ve been struggling with weight-related health issues, our team can evaluate your situation and help you find solutions. Schedule a consultation today.

The Role of Lifestyle Changes in Medical Weight Loss

Medications help, but they work best when combined with healthy habits. This is true for all medical weight loss programs.

The FDA requires that weight loss medications be used alongside diet and exercise. This isn’t just a suggestion. The medications were tested in studies where people also made lifestyle changes.

What lifestyle changes matter most?

• Eating fewer calories than your body burns
• Choosing nutrient-dense foods
• Moving your body regularly
• Getting enough sleep
• Managing stress
• Drinking plenty of water

Clinical data shows that people who stop taking GLP-1 medications without maintaining healthy habits tend to regain weight. One 2025 study found that people regain about 0.4 kg per month after stopping the medication, returning to their original size after about 1.7 years.

This means the habits you build during treatment matter for long-term success. We help you create sustainable changes, not temporary fixes.

Our approach combines medical support with practical strategies you can maintain. This gives you the best chance of keeping weight off after you reach your goals.

Financial Considerations for Medical Weight Loss

Cost matters when you’re thinking about medical weight loss. These treatments aren’t always cheap, and insurance coverage varies.

Brand-name weight loss medications typically cost between $617 and $766 per month according to the Employee Benefits Research Institute. Without insurance, you might pay $1,000 to $1,300 monthly.

Insurance coverage is changing. In 2024, about 44% of large employers with 500 or more employees covered weight-loss medications. That’s up from 41% the year before. Among the largest employers, coverage reached 64%.

However, many insurance plans still don’t cover weight loss drugs. Medicare Part D traditionally excluded drugs used only for weight loss. Some states are working on expanding coverage through Medicaid.

If your insurance doesn’t cover the medications, you have options:

• Prescription discount programs
• Patient assistance programs from drug manufacturers
• Compounded versions that may cost less
• Payment plans through your provider

We work with our Lee’s Summit clients to find affordable solutions. Cost shouldn’t keep you from getting help if you need it.

For more information about our programs, including pricing options, contact our team.

What to Expect During Your Medical Weight Loss Journey

Starting a medical weight loss program involves several steps. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare.

Your first appointment usually includes:

• A complete medical history review
• Current medications and supplements discussion
• Weight and BMI calculation
• Discussion of your weight loss goals
• Blood work or other tests
• Creating your personalized plan

After you start treatment, you’ll have regular follow-up appointments. These might happen weekly, biweekly, or monthly depending on your program and how you’re doing.

During follow-ups, your provider will:

• Check your weight and progress
• Ask about any side effects
• Adjust medications if needed
• Review your eating and exercise habits
• Provide support and encouragement

Most people start seeing results within the first few weeks. Weight loss is usually gradual. Expect to lose 1-2 pounds per week on average.

According to clinical trials, semaglutide users lost an average of 15.1% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Other medications show similar results when people stick with their programs.

Remember that everyone’s body responds differently. Your results will depend on many factors including your starting weight, how well you follow the plan, and your individual metabolism.

Supporting Your Weight Loss with Additional Treatments

Medical weight loss programs can work alongside other treatments. Many people combine medications with other services for better results.

Some complementary treatments include:

• Hormone replacement therapy if hormonal imbalances affect your weight
• Vitamin shots to support your energy and metabolism
• Body sculpting to address stubborn areas after weight loss
• Skin tightening if loose skin becomes a concern

We take a complete approach at Slimming Solutions Med Spa. Weight loss affects your whole body, and we help you feel good about all aspects of your health and appearance.

After significant weight loss, some people want help with loose skin or remaining fatty deposits. We offer treatments that can address these concerns without surgery.

The key is to focus on your health first. Cosmetic improvements can come later if you want them.

Have questions about how different treatments might work together for you? Schedule a consultation with our team in Lee’s Summit.

Long-Term Success and Maintenance

Reaching your goal weight is exciting, but maintaining it is the real challenge. Medical weight loss programs should include plans for keeping weight off long-term.

According to a study from 2025, people who participate in weight management programs alongside medication have better outcomes. The lifestyle support helps people maintain their weight loss even after they stop taking medications.

Strategies for long-term success include:

• Continue healthy eating habits
• Stay active with regular exercise
• Monitor your weight regularly
• Stay connected with your healthcare provider
• Address any regain quickly
• Consider maintenance doses of medication if appropriate

Some people need to stay on weight loss medications long-term. This is okay. Many health conditions require long-term medication management, and obesity is a chronic condition for many people.

The important thing is finding what works for your body and your life. There’s no single right answer for everyone.

Our approach focuses on creating sustainable habits. We don’t want you to feel like you’re constantly dieting. Instead, we help you find a way of eating and living that feels normal and keeps you healthy.

Final Thoughts

Medical weight loss can be a helpful option if you meet the requirements and are ready to make lasting changes. The best candidates typically have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions. You should also be prepared to commit to lifestyle changes alongside any medications.

Before starting any medical weight loss program, talk to a healthcare provider who can evaluate your individual situation. They’ll consider your medical history, current health, medications, and goals to determine if medical weight loss is appropriate for you.

Weight loss is a personal path. What works for someone else might not work for you. That’s why working with professionals who can tailor a program to your needs makes such a difference.

Here in Lee’s Summit and the greater Kansas City area, Slimming Solutions Med Spa offers personalized medical weight loss programs. We evaluate each person carefully to find the right approach for their body and lifestyle.

If you’ve been struggling with your weight and wonder if medical weight loss might help, we’re here to answer your questions. Request a consultation to learn more about your options and whether you might be a good candidate for our programs.

Your health matters. Taking the first step to ask for help shows strength, not weakness. We look forward to supporting you on your weight loss path.