New weight management service available in North Yorkshire

Adults in North Yorkshire can now access a Specialist Weight Management Service through NHS North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). This intensive service (known as Tier 3) is available for all patients in the NHS North Yorkshire CCG area for the first time.

The new service is for patients who have tried other weight loss support available through the NHS or North Yorkshire County Council. This might include previous participation in programmes like low calorie diets, diabetes prevention, digital health sessions or other adult weight management options.

Where these have not achieved sufficient results, a more tailored intervention is now available through this more specialised service. Patients at greatest risk from severe obesity, or with more complex needs, and who may benefit from a more individualised approach can be referred from their GP practice into this weight management service.

The Tier 3 service is provided by South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and is overseen by a consultant. It will usually involve 6-12 months support from a range of professionals such as dietitians, psychologists, support workers and also input from physiotherapists to support patients with the exercise element of the programme.

Dr Charles Parker, Clinical Chair for North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group said: “I am delighted that patients across North Yorkshire can now access this new multi-disciplinary service. We know that for some patients, particularly those with severe obesity, general weight loss programmes do not provide enough tailored and intensive support. So it is great news that there is now an offer for these individuals to help them on their weight loss journey enabling them to lead active and healthy lives.”