Weight Management Program FAQs

In this article:

How does virtual care work for weight management?

Virtual care for weight management involves ongoing visits with a healthcare provider. During your first visit, your provider will review and evaluate your medical history and order any appropriate lab testing that may be needed to determine whether weight loss medication may be for you. At your second visit, your provider will evaluate your test results, discuss your personal health and weight-related goals, and help you design a personalized care plan. In addition to lifestyle recommendations, your care plan may include prescription weight loss medication. Once you begin the medication, you'll have monthly check-ins with your provider, who will review your weight loss progress, assess your medication tolerance, order follow-up lab testing or prescription refills, and adjust your care plan as needed. 

What is a GLP-1? 

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), sometimes called incretin mimetics, are prescription medications that act like a natural form of GLP-1 found in your body. These medications are sometimes used along with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management. Some GLP-1 medications are also used in patients with diabetes to help with blood sugar management. Your provider will assess your health needs to determine which medication is best suited for you. Examples of GLP-1 medications include:

  • Semaglutide (Wegovy®, RYBELSUS®, Ozempic®)
  • Liraglutide (Victoza®, Saxenda®)
  • Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)

Who is eligible to take weight loss medication?

You may be eligible for a prescription weight loss medication if you are over 18 years of age and your healthcare provider determines that you meet specific criteria based on your medical history and health risk factors. Prescriptions are not guaranteed, however.

Who should not take GLP-1 prescription weight loss medication?

If you have any of the following health conditions, you may not be eligible for GLP-1 medication:

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer 
  • Personal history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)
  • Pancreatitis 
  • Eating disorder 
  • Bariatric surgery (within last 18 months) 
  • Heart attack (within last 12 months) 
  • Organ transplant or immunosuppressive therapy 
  • Heart failure 
  • Cancer (currently being treated)
  • Severe gastrointestinal diseases (gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc.) 
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Insulin use
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Alcohol and/or substance misuse 
  • Psychotic disorders (psychosis, schizophrenia, etc.) 
  • Suicidal thoughts or attempts 

Is lab testing required for this program?

Yes, lab testing is required before your provider prescribes GLP-1 medication. This helps to ensure you are healthy enough to start a weight loss program. Required labs include a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), hemoglobin A1c, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and a lipid panel. These labs may also need to be repeated periodically to monitor how your body is responding to the medication.

Where can I get the lab testing done?

Your provider will direct you to have your lab testing performed at your nearest Quest laboratory. Additionally, if you have completed the required lab testing in the past six months, you can upload them for your clinician to review.

At this time Everlywell at-home tests are not included as part of this offering.

What is the cost of the lab testing?

The cost of lab testing will vary depending on your location and if you are using insurance or paying out-of-pocket. To confirm if lab testing is covered by your insurance plan, contact your insurance carrier directly. Our partner Healthie currently offers a $76 cash pay option through Quest that bundles all required labs, or you can work directly with Quest to determine if coverage is available through your insurance plan. Please note that the $76 cash pay option is not available in AZ, NJ, NY, or RI.

Is lab testing covered by insurance?

Lab testing may be covered by your insurance plan. To confirm coverage, contact your insurance carrier directly.

How much weight can you lose with GLP-1 medication?

Weight loss results vary depending on your starting weight, medical conditions, lifestyle changes, and type of weight loss medication. Many people who take GLP-1 medications for a year or longer have reported losing up to 15% of their starting body weight.

What are age restrictions for visits?

At this time, only patients aged 18+ are eligible for the weight management program.

What kind of providers are available?

Your licensed board-certified nurse practitioners are qualified to prescribe medication, order lab tests, and assess your symptoms and health goals to create a customized care plan for you.

Will I get to choose the provider I schedule an appointment with?

Yes, we’ll show you the providers who have availability and are licensed in the state you’re located in.

Are virtual visits for the online weight management program covered by insurance?

Virtual visits for weight management are not currently covered by insurance. However, some insurance plans may cover other costs related to weight loss treatment, such as lab testing and prescription weight loss medication. 

Are prescriptions covered by insurance?

Some prescriptions for GLP-1 medication may be covered by your insurance plan. If needed, your clinician can help you navigate the prior authorization process. We will use your insurance information to help find affordable prescription options for you.

Will I be able to speak to the same provider during follow-up visits?

You may be able to speak to the same provider, depending on provider availability. Please note that any follow-up appointments are considered separate from the initial appointment and additional fees may apply.

How will my information be kept private? 

Our services are HIPAA compliant and follow privacy guidelines. We use industry-leading technology to ensure your personal information is kept safe and confidential.

Can I cancel after I find out the costs? 

You can manage your appointment and cancellations by clicking “Manage Appointment” on your My Everly account dashboard. If you need to speak with someone about canceling your appointment, you can also contact Everlywell partner, OpenLoop, at +1 (708) 787-4438, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday.

If you do not give at least 24 hours notice before cancellation, you will be charged a $25 no-show fee.