Program for Reducing Obesity (PRO) - Los Angeles, CA

Program for Reducing Obesity - UCLA Health Endocrinology

Why choose the UCLA Health Program for Reducing Obesity?

The UCLA Health Program for Reducing Obesity (PRO) is a medical weight loss program for anyone with a body mass index (BMI) over 30. It is an insurance-based program with an optional 12-week course on nutrition and weight loss. Patients in the PRO benefit from personalized, comprehensive care from a team of specialized experts.

Highlights of our program include:

Insurance-based treatment: Our program is uniquely positioned as covered by insurance. Many weight loss programs are cash pay or meal replacement plans. PRO is a comprehensive, medical treatment program that includes follow-up with an obesity medicine specialist. This expert can also support patients with underlying, related disorders such as thyroid disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or Cushing’s syndrome .

Specialized physicians: All our PRO physicians are certified in obesity medicine. Our team also includes dietitians who lead group classes. We participate in obesity medicine research, continually implementing the newest and most effective treatments.

Advanced technology: Our obesity medicine specialists use the latest technology to evaluate and treat patients. For example, your assessment may include a Tanita body composition analyzer to assess lean muscle versus fat. This technology helps us tailor calorie goals to body composition. Throughout treatment, it also helps us ensure that you retain lean muscle as you lose weight.

Access to multiple experts: As part of a large academic center, we can easily refer patients to any other subspecialist as needed. This ensures you receive comprehensive, specialized care.

Research-driven care: We led a research project that showed our insurance-based obesity program is successful at promoting weight loss in a community setting. After one year of program participation, more than half of our patients lost at least 5% of their body weight, with some losing almost 8% at the one-year mark.

Who qualifies for PRO?

The Program for Reducing Obesity is open to any patient with a BMI over 30.

We may also offer support for patients with hormonal conditions or imbalances that contribute to challenges with weight loss, including:

Adrenal disorders
Hypogonadism
Insulin resistance
Menopausal disorders
Pituitary disorders
Reproductive conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Thyroid disorders

What to expect from PRO

Initial consultation includes a comprehensive review of your weight loss history, along with an evaluation for any potential underlying disorders or hormonal dysregulation. Our PRO physicians can diagnose any conditions contributing to your weight loss struggles and offer treatment, when applicable.

Your obesity specialist creates an individualized treatment plan that may include:

A meal plan for weight loss
Assistance monitoring weight-related health issues
Recommendations for physical activity and exercise for weight loss
Review of medications that may be contributing to weight gain
FDA-approved weight loss medications, including injections for weight loss

You complete a follow-up visit with your endocrinologist every three months. Your obesity medicine specialist will monitor your weight loss and adjust your treatment plan, if necessary.

PRO 12-week course

You may choose to enroll in our 12-week course led by a registered dietitian and obesity medicine specialist. These group sessions offer research-based, practical guidance for planning and implementing your weight loss journey.

Session topics include:

Choosing the right meal plan
Cooking healthy meals
Emotional eating
Exploring Mediterranean and DASH diets
Hunger cues and eating in response to hunger
Incorporating physical activity into your lifestyle
Portion control
Practicing positive self-talk
Setting realistic health goals
Tips for grocery shopping.

Current PRO Class Schedule

Our expert team

Our specialists are certified in obesity medicine and offer the most effective, research-based treatments. We provide team-based, comprehensive care with a personalized, compassionate approach.