Is Calibrate better for me? No PCP

[Anonymous]

I just changed insurance, in large part because my old HMO would not cover any kind of weight loss program (unmedicated or medicated) and I really need to lose weight. I don't yet have a primary care physician.

Calibrate is a lot of money and I've seen people on DCUM say some harsh things about it ... but I am pretty daunted by having to find and meet with perhaps multiple PCPs, maybe an endocrinologist, before getting weight loss help. I have an obese BMI and I have done all the programs -- WW, Noom, Joggo, etc. If I work very hard I can lose maybe 3 to 5 lbs; if anything happens in life to disrupt my eating/workout schedule, I gain weight. I gained like 10 lbs in 2022.

Any advice?

[Anonymous]

Use plush care. The membership is $14.99 per month and they will prescribe weight loss meds, fill out prior authorization if needed and they have free health coaches for nutrition etc.

[Anonymous]

I've been using Alpha medical. The nurse practitioner I've been working with has been very responsive.

[Anonymous]

I don’t understand what’s so intimidating about seeing a pcp or endocrinologist and a therapist covered by your insurance rather than paying $1800 out of pocket plus copays for Ozempic and blood work labs for what is essentially counseling?

Is it the virtual nature of the doctor consult that appeals to you? The lack of actual accountability an in-person doctor represents?

[Anonymous]

I have CareFirst and I’ve only used my PCP for my Mounjaro. But CareFirst also had a telehealth option called CloseKnit.

It’s covered so no crazy co-pays etc. I would check into that option first. Other options include: Alpha, Push and PlushCare.

[Anonymous]

Another alternative is to see a doctor specializing in non-surgery bariatric medicine. I considered the online options after my PCP said she did not have expertise in weight loss counseling or medicine, but then ended up making an appointment with a local weight loss clinic with a doctor certified in bariatric medicine. I figured that they would be more responsive in general and knowledgeable about local pharmacies than an online provider.

[Anonymous]

I went with Calibrate last July and using Ozempic. I meet with a coach biweekly. They send you a scale that connects with their app. I have dieted so many times, I didn’t expect to read anything new in the reading classes they provide but I actually learned new things and was able to put them into practice. It does take a while to get a medical question answered, like if there’s trouble with a refill but they ultimately resolved my issue. I’m down 27 pounds so far. Once the year long commitment is up I will evaluate continuing with Calibrate or a cheaper option. Yes Calibrate is spendy but it’s working for me. Even with the medication there is still a lot of work involved with getting the weight off. Obesity is a chronic disease for me. Hope this helps and glad you are looking for ways to improve your health!