LighterLife medical protocol & forms
Initial screening
We recognise that LighterLife’s weight-loss
programmes are not suitable for some potential patients, due to
VLCD/LCD contraindications. To screen out
unsuitable candidates, we review every medical history.
The first stage of this process is a
self-declared history, given at a LighterLife initial consultation. This is then assessed by the
LighterLife weight-management counsellor and LighterLife’s medical
department.
LighterLife Total VLCD
If a potential patient appears suitable after
this initial check, prior to being allowed to start the VLCD they
must complete a brief health questionnaire with their GP, practice
nurse or other approved healthcare professional to confirm
their self-declared information.
This questionnaire also examines past medical
history for contraindication to VLCD, includes initial BP and
pulse, and considers the need for any medication adjustments as the
patient loses weight.
View a copy of the LighterLife
Health Questionnaire.
LighterLife Lite LCD
Patients can be accepted onto LighterLife Lite
immediately if they pass LighterLife’s initial assessment.
For some, this assessment might highlight medical history (such as
type 2 diabetes) that would merit further discussion with their GP
or practice nurse.
View a copy of the LighterLife Health
Questionnaire Lite.
While losing weight
During the LighterLife Total VLCD
Significant and rapid weight loss can reduce
blood pressure and medication requirements. Therefore, as
recommended in the NICE and COMA guidelines, patients should be
monitored while on the LighterLife Total VCLD.
If the patient is on medication that is likely to require
adjustment, a monthly BP
check should be
carried out by the patient’s practice.
During the LighterLife Lite LCD
Patients on medication or with a significant
medical history will require support from their GP practice for
participation in LighterLife Lite.
We would be grateful if you would verify their health questionnaire
and make any medication adjustments as required.
What happens to completed LighterLife health-check
forms?
Your patient takes the completed forms back to
their weight-management counsellor, who records the data on
LighterLife’s secure Client Data System. The original forms are
then sent to LighterLife Central Office for verification.
No one can join a LighterLife weight-loss
programme without being approved by LighterLife’s medical
department.
LighterLife complies with the Data Protection
Act.
Medical responsibility
Signing any of our health questionnaires
simply confirms that the information provided is true to the best
of your knowledge.
It does not transfer medical responsibility for
LighterLife Total VLCD or LighterLife Lite LCD to a GP,
practice or employer.