Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026

Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
A novel endocrinology-based wellness program to reduce medication expenditures and improve glycemic outcomes
J Gary Evans1, David R Sutton, Lorraine H Dajani
1Northeast Florida Endocrine & Diabetes Associates, Jacksonville, FL 32204, United States. john.evans12@comcast.net
Aims:
The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in diabetes-related medication expenditures as a result of a 16-week lifestyle intervention program. Medical expenditures for patients with diabetes are twice as high compared to patients without this condition. Secondary objectives were changes in HbA1C, BMI, weight, body fat, and program satisfaction.
Methods:
The Wellness Life! Program includes educational sessions focused on nutrition, fitness, and behavioral therapy. Medication costs were based on Average Wholesale Prices, tabulated from the 2010 Red Book.
Results:
A total of 36 patients (49-80 years old) enrolled, of which 27 patients have diabetes mellitus (Type 2=26, Type 1=1). Mean 30-day anti-diabetic medication costs decreased by $142.92. Clinical mean parameters improved in both the overall group and the diabetic subgroup, respectively: HbA1C (%) -0.69, -0.82; weight (lbs) -16.94, -17.11; BMI -2.73, -2.88; and body fat (%) -1.71, -1.79. Participants were generally satisfied with the program.
Conclusions:
Employing a multidisciplinary wellness program within an endocrinology practice can reduce anti-diabetic medication expenses; however, long term follow-up is needed to determine if medication reductions and improved clinical parameters persist.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Hypoglycemia and Glucagon
Hormones Regulating Blood Glucose
In addition to accelerating glucose uptake and utilization, insulin has...
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by the...
Type II Diabetes I: Introduction
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones