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Optimal Weight for Life (OWL) Program

New Balance Foundation OWL on the Road Program

Comprehensive Medical Evaluation

All new patients are evaluated by a medical provider, either a physician or nurse practitioner (supervised by an attending physician). This evaluation includes:

  • obtaining a comprehensive personal and family history
  • physical examination
  • reviewing screening lab tests ordered by your primary care provider

The purpose of this evaluation is to determine if any underlying medical condition (such as a hormone problem) and weight-related complications (including high cholesterol, diabetes, or gastrointestinal disease) are present.

Nutritional Counseling

The primary treatment approach is dietary modification. After a complete dietary analysis, dietary recommendations are individualized to the needs of the patient and family in a culturally respectful manner. We utilize a "low glycemic" index diet to help stabilize blood sugar after eating and thereby help control excessive appetite. During the initial evaluation, families meet privately with a dietitian to discuss practical aspects of starting the recommended meal plan.

Behavior modification

Behavior modification focuses on increasing motivation to change the diet and level of physical activity through a combination of short-term individual and family psychotherapy sessions. These skills gained through these sessions may also help children cope with the emotional stresses associated with being overweight.

Appointments

Scheduling
A first-time comprehensive evaluation can be scheduled by speaking with your child’s primary care provider.  Patients less than 18 years of age are required to have a parent/guardian present for each visit. 

Ages Served
We treat new patients aged 2 to 21 years who are cared for by that health center. Patients under the age of two are generally referred to a nutritionist for initial evaluation.  Exceptions, though rare, can be made on a case-by-case basis by one of our attending physicians.

Insurance and referrals
New Balance Foundation Owl on the Road is most generously funded by a grant from the New Balance Foundation.  There is no charge for our services, nor payment required.

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