Weight Management
Managing your weight can feel overwhelming, and there is no shortage of conflicting advice online. Your GP can offer evidence-based, personalised support to help you understand your health, set realistic goals, and make sustainable changes. All treatment decisions are made on an individual basis following a thorough clinical assessment.
Clinical weight management services
Initial Assessments
Your GP will conduct a clinical assessment that may include body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure measurement, and pathology requests appropriate to your presentation. A full medical and medication history will be taken as part of this process.
Investigation of Contributing Factors
Excess weight can be associated with a range of medical conditions and medications. Your GP will assess whether any underlying clinical factors require investigation or management.
Care Planning
Patients with obesity-related comorbidities may be eligible for a GP Management Plan and Team Care Arrangement under Medicare, enabling referrals to relevant allied health professionals. Eligibility is determined at the time of consultation.
Pharmacological Options
Where clinically indicated, your GP may discuss pharmacological options for weight management that are approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia. Any prescribing decision will be based on individual clinical assessment, your medical history, contraindications, and a full discussion of risks and benefits. Your GP will not prescribe medications that are not approved for this indication.
Specialist Referrals
Where appropriate, your GP can refer you to specialist services including bariatric surgical teams or multidisciplinary weight management clinics.
Ongoing Clinical Reviews
Regular follow-up is recommended to monitor your health, review any investigations, and adjust your management plan as clinically appropriate.
What you can expect at your first appointment
Measurement of weight, height, BMI, and waist circumference
Blood pressure assessment
Review of your medical history and current medications
Pathology requests as clinically indicated
A discussion of management options based on your individual circumstances
Initiation of a care plan or referral where appropriate
Frequently asked questions
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Investigations are determined by your individual clinical presentation and may include fasting glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, thyroid function, liver function tests, full blood count, and renal function, among others.
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Patients with an established chronic condition may be eligible for a GP Management Plan, allowing up to five subsidised allied health consultations per calendar year under Medicare. Your GP will assess your eligibility at your appointment.
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Fees vary depending on appointment length and individual circumstances. Please contact reception for current fee information. Bulk billing may be available for eligible patients.
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Where clinically appropriate, your GP can refer you to:
Accredited practising dietitians
Exercise physiologists
Clinical psychologists experienced in weight management and eating behaviour
Endocrinologists where a secondary endocrine cause is identified or suspected
Bariatric surgical services where eligibility criteria are met
This webpage is intended as general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your GP for advice specific to your circumstances.