Obesity Medicine
Definition
Obesity medicine is a board-recognized medical specialty in the United States, with certification offered through the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) and professional organization support from the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA). It treats obesity as a complex, chronic, neurobiological disease rather than a lifestyle failure — with causes rooted in genetics, hormones, metabolism, psychology, and environment. Obesity medicine practitioners use evidence-based interventions including pharmacotherapy, behavioral counseling, nutritional medicine, and surgical referral when indicated. They are trained to evaluate the full metabolic, hormonal, and psychological picture driving weight retention rather than providing generic calorie advice.
Frequently Asked Question
Why Obesity Medicine Matters
How Spokmed Company Uses It
Michelle Middleton, PA-C is a member of the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) and applies obesity medicine principles in her clinical practice — treating excess weight as a complex chronic condition requiring diagnostic depth, testing-guided intervention, and ongoing management rather than a behavioral failure requiring a diet plan. Her approach includes comprehensive metabolic testing before prescribing, evidence-based pharmacotherapy (GLP-1 medications), nutritional medicine, and integrated health coaching — consistent with OMA's clinical framework. This context is also why SPOKEmed does not offer generic weight loss programs or cookie-cutter protocols.