weight bias

Make Your Weight Management Practice a Judgement-Free Zone

By Dr. Kushner / July 4, 2023 /

One of the greatest barriers to accessing care for people with overweight or obesity are patients’ feelings of being judged by others because of excess weight. As I educate health care professionals about caring for patients with the disease of obesity, I address this by making sure that clinicians are firstly aware of their own…

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Tips to Improve Health Care Encounter when Talking about Weight

By Dr. Kushner / March 27, 2022 /

If you’re someone who struggles with weight, you may also struggle talking about weight with your health care provider. I know this because for the past 40 years I have talked to thousands of patients about weight and have seen firsthand how difficult this conversation can be for many individuals. Difficulties can range from people…

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Reflections on the Growing Field of Obesity Medicine

By Dr. Kushner / July 6, 2021 /

As a passionate clinician, educator, researcher and advocate, I have dedicated my career to helping improve the lives of those affected by being overweight or having the disease of obesity. I’m also a member of a group that is one of the fastest growing specialties in medicine – obesity medicine physician specialists. Though I appreciate…

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How to Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) about your Weight

By Dr. Kushner / July 19, 2020 /

If you’re like my patients, most likely the Covid-19 pandemic has made you re-evaluate your health habits and even inspired you to better manage your weight. If you’re serious about getting help to do so, a good place to begin is by reaching out to your PCP. You see weight management really is a team…

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Do 3 Things to Fight Weight Bias during Your Health Care Visit

By Dr. Kushner / October 23, 2019 /

Too often, patients share comments they’ve received from their health care provider that make them feel shamed about their weight. Examples include: “If you just eat less and exercise more, you wouldn’t be so big.” “You need to stop eating or your knees will never get better.” “If you keep eating so much, you’re destined…

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