TransforMe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I am ready to lose weight, but I can’t come in every week because I work and it’s too hard to get to the medical office building. What should I do?
We are excited that you are ready to begin your weight loss journey. Our TransforMe support group classes are now virtual. This will reduce the need to travel to our medical offices for group sessions but does not reduce our commitment and support to you. There will be instances you will still need to come to our medical office buildings to see your physician; however, our digital care program (using our virtual platform, tracking apps, and remote weight monitoring) will keep us connected every step of the way during this one year program.
2. How will I afford this program?
Investing in your health and wellness is important. We understand paying the program fee all at once may present a challenge. To assist with this challenge, we offer a payment plan. Your program cost is divided into 2 payments to be paid over a 30 to 60-day period. We are confident that the benefits of this program will far outweigh the cost. If you are still unable to participate, please know that Kaiser Permanente offers many other free programs throughout the year at most of our facilities. You can find a list of available programs online at kp.org/classes or in one of our Healthy Living Magazines. Here are a few free courses available to all Kaiser Permanente members:
- Adult Weight Management classes
- Exercise classes
- Healthy cooking classes
- Wellness Coaching by phone
- Online wellness assessments
- Online treatment programs.
3. I am on a restricted diet and cannot have gluten or whey. Can your program accommodate me?
Yes, the Flex Track can be customized to accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies.
4. Can I choose my own bars and shakes for either program?
The Transforme Flex Track has flexibility; however, we want to be sure that the meal replacements you choose comply with the program guidelines (for calories, protein fiber, sugar etc.) to ensure that your plan is healthy and safe. Rest assured we will give you lots of choices and work with you to find meal replacement options that suit your personal tastes and budget.
5. I have several medical conditions including diabetes, AFIB and hypertension. Is it safe for me to diet?
TransforMe is evidenced-based and thousands of participants with and without medical conditions have followed this diet program safely and with lasting results. We find that even modest 5-10% reductions in body weight will bring about significant improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood cholesterol. This allows participants to reduce or eliminate medications for these diseases. Our physicians (called bariatricians) are board-certified in obesity medicine and will be with you every step of the way to help you safely and effectively lose weight.
6. I cannot participant in TransforMe, but I want weight loss medication. Can I go to my primary care physician and get antiobesity medications?
Most of the time, Kaiser Permanente primary care physicians do not prescribe anti-obesity medications, as these medications require monthly monitoring. Many of these medications cannot be used long-term. Our doctors refer their patients to the weight management program for more in-depth treatment options. Obesity medications should only be used to assist you, during your journey to make both diet and lifestyle changes.
We want you to be successful. If our program does not currently fit your lifestyle, we encourage you to participate in one of the free class offerings at Kaiser Permanente. You can find these classes online at KP.org/classes or in our Healthy Living magazines located in our medical offices.
7. I cannot afford the program; can I continue to see my doctor and get my medication?
Our Bariatricians prescribe anti-obesity medication as an adjunct to a multidisciplinary treatment program which includes, diet, physical activity, behavior and lifestyle modification, and on-going support. We know that medication alone, will not address the underlying disease of obesity and cannot prescribe medication alone to treat this disease. The good news is that Kaiser offers a variety of free or low-cost treatment programs including the Diabetes, Prevention Program, The Adult Weight Management Program and Wellness Coaching by Phone. Please refer to the Healthy Living Catalogue for more information on these weight control
8. I currently receive MFA along with my Kaiser Permanente Health Plan. Can I use this to pay for the TransforMe Program?
Unfortunately, your MFA benefit does not cover the TransforMe program or program fees. If you are unable to participate because of financial limitations, we encourage you to take advantage of one of our free programs. Please see our Healthy Living magazines or online listings at kp.org/classes to find get more information.