Frequently asked questions

What sets you apart from other weight management clinics?

I run a solo direct specialty care practice that is comprehensive and personalized. To ensure the highest quality of care, appointments are longer, and I dedicate time to thoroughly research your unique health concerns if needed. I intentionally limit the number of patients in my practice to maintain this level of care.

Unlike many clinics, I won’t simply prescribe medications like Ozempic after a brief consultation and send you on your way. Instead, I provide ongoing support for chronic, lifelong conditions such as obesity, offering care for as long as you need it.

My approach includes evidence-based interventions such as prescribing medications when indicated, providing cognitive behavioral therapy, using meal replacements, and offering exercise and nutritional support, along with other proven modalities. This holistic, long-term support ensures you have the tools and guidance necessary for sustainable health improvements.

What weight loss medicines do you prescribe?

I prescribe or provide affordable access to a full range of weight loss medications, including both brand-name and low-cost compounded generics. These include GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide, tirzepatide, and any new options that may become available in the near future, as well as medications like Contrave (or generics), phentermine, Qsymia (or generics), metformin, orlistat, and others.

Do you accept insurance?

Currently, I am unable to bill insurance. However, I’d be happy to see you on a membership or fee-for-service basis if you have Medi-Cal, Medicaid, or commercial insurance. If you have Medicare, please let me know if you'd like to join a waiting list, and I’ll reach out when it becomes possible to see you.

Why do I need a membership?

Managing long-term conditions like obesity and related chronic illnesses and health risks isn’t just about a one-time solution or a single appointment; it involves ongoing attention, consistent follow-through, and continuous support. A membership-based approach ensures that you’re not left on your own between scheduled visits or treatment milestones. Instead, it provides you with an open line of communication and a reliable avenue for professional guidance whenever you have a question, encounter a setback, or require adjustments to your care plan.

This model encourages a proactive approach to your health rather than a reactive one. Instead of hesitating to reach out due to the cost of a single appointment or the inconvenience of scheduling a formal follow-up, the membership model allows you to get help as soon as you need it. This kind of ongoing accessibility can lead to more timely advice, more tailored strategies, and, ultimately, more effective long-term results. It’s designed to give you the comprehensive, continuous, and easily accessible support necessary for making lasting changes to your health and quality of life.

Can you see me in person?

Yes, if that's more convenient for you or if the diagnosis is unclear. Let me know if it's your preference.

Where do you practice?

I am based in Walnut Creek, CA, and I’m licensed to practice in both California and Kentucky. I offer telehealth services in both states and can also see you in person in Walnut Creek if that’s convenient for you. If you’re located outside the United States, that’s perfectly fine. I’ll be happy to provide telehealth services wherever you are.

Can I just have a one-time consultation?

Absolutely. Simply schedule an initial appointment, which includes both the enrollment and membership fees ($300 total). You’ll then receive the same comprehensive, personalized service—complete with unlimited follow-ups—for one month. Think of it as a trial membership.

If, after that month, you decide not to continue, no problem at all. You’re welcome to re-enroll at any time in the future for the same initial fee of $300 (a $100 re-enrollment plus a $200 one-month membership fee). However, if you find you need ongoing care and see the benefits of membership, I’ll be more than happy to keep caring for you as one of my regular practice patients ($200 per month until cancellation).

I'm still not sure if I need or benefit from your services and I have a few more questions.

I understand you may not be ready to subscribe or schedule a consultation just yet. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out by email, the contact page on my website, text or phone. Let me know your availability, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible to arrange a brief meet-and-greet call where I can address your concerns.

I'd like to schedule my first appointment.

Please take a moment to carefully review the service agreement on the appointment tab. Once you’ve done so, click the “Schedule an Appointment” button, then select the "First-time Appointment" option. After that, you'll receive links to the payment portal, intake forms, and to sign the contract.

I have some health concerns, but I'm not overweight. Would I still benefit from your services.

Absolutely. Many of my patients are overweight, and this is a significant risk factor for most chronic illnesses. As a result, it often becomes our primary focus. However, it’s not the only condition I manage. Lifestyle medicine remains the cornerstone of this clinic’s approach and is applicable to virtually every medical issue. It is also a key factor in preventing chronic disease and extending one’s healthspan.

Can you see pediatric patients?

As a general rule, I see patients aged 12 and older. Occasionally, I may consider seeing younger patients on a case-by-case basis. Let’s discuss it further.

Do you practice functional, integrative or alternative medicine?

Not exactly. Both lifestyle medicine and obesity medicine are evidence-based disciplines supported by a wealth of scientific research. I do not order tests that I cannot fully interpret or that would not impact your treatment plan. Additionally, I avoid recommending interventions that are unproven, potentially harmful, or unlikely to provide value for your time and money.

That said, I prioritize prevention, take a holistic approach to treating the whole person, and strongly believe in the mind-body connection. Mental health, stress management, addiction treatment, and behavioral modification are central to lifestyle medicine. Without addressing these aspects of your life, no weight loss intervention can have lasting success.

What is the follow-up process?

Typically, we schedule a follow-up appointment during your visit. If you don't have a scheduled follow-up, but would like to schedule one, please go to the Appointment page and click the "Schedule an Appointment" button, then select the "Follow-up Appointment" option. If you have any question or concern that may not need a full appointment, please reach out to me directly by text, phone, email, or through the contact page on this website.

Do you still practice family or general medicine?

Yes, I stay up to date and maintain board certification in my primary specialty, allowing me to diagnose and treat conditions typically managed in a primary care clinic. However, this is no longer my main focus. Currently, I do not offer after-hours appointments, perform office procedures, or manage acute care. About 80% of my practice is dedicated to weight management and lifestyle interventions.