Obesity Service
The Westmead Hospital Obesity Clinic assists general practitioners in Western Sydney manage patients with obesity. The Clinic prefers to help patients with moderate to severe obesity i.e. BMI> 35 or where obesity is associated with significant other medical problems such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and respiratory disorders.
The Clinic runs weekly on Tuesday mornings 9-1200 hours.
On first attending the Clinic, patients will be assessed by an endocrinologist, dietitians and an exercise physiologist. Problems identified by the patient and referring doctor will be addressed and the cause of weight gain identified where possible. Generally a treatment regime will be outlined in consultation with the patient's wishes.
Clinic management is based on current medical opinion on practical management of obesity. Rapid and marked weight loss through food restriction and excessive exercise is not encouraged, nor is emphasis placed on an ideal weight.
Clinic staff will try to improve the general health and well-being of patients through sustainable lifestyle changes, exercise and diet, and possibly medications. In many cases this includes some weight loss, but this is not the only goal. In some patients with serious conditions exacerbated by obesity, substantial and rapid weight loss is aimed for using very low calorie diets.
Available Treatments Include
- The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating
- Low Carbohydrate and High Protein Diet
- The 5 : 2 Diet
- Very Low Calorie Diet
- Appetite suppressant medication
- Individual exercise program
Most patients will be seen initially fortnightly, then monthly for 2-3 months then every 2-3 months for the long-term. As obesity is not curable, we believe follow-up should continue for years.
Clinic Staff Include
Endocrinologist – Dr SuAnn Ding
Dietitians – Ashwini Chand and Veronica Mok
Exercise physiologist – Daniel Parker
Appointments
For appointments telephone Westmead Hospital University Clinics on (02) 8890 6544
Referrals
Patients must have a current referral to Dr Jonathan Marks.
Referral fax: 02 8890 8333
Enquiries
For more information on the Obesity Clinic telephone (02) 8890 6544