Our program is led by a doctor, ensuring a medically guided approach to weight management. Unlike fad diets that focus on counting calories or using point systems, our strategy is backed by science and focuses on the key areas of mindset, behavior, and, when necessary, medications to address obesity. We offer a unique, personalized model that brings together a team of professionals—including dietitians, psychotherapists, and fitness coaches—working collaboratively to support your journey. Instead of seeking fragmented care from separate providers, you can find all the expert support you need under one roof. We will call you within 1 week of referral; the average wait time for an initial consultation is currently 2-3 weeks, which is unparalleled in the Canadian health system.
We prescribe Health Canada-approved medications for weight loss, such as Semaglutide, Liraglutide, Bupropion/Naltrexone, and Tirzapetide to eligible patients. These medications are often referred to by their brand name, so you may have heard of these medications as Wegovy®, Ozempic® (approved for diabetics), Mounjaro® (for diabetics), or Contrave®, to name a few.
Medications are prescribed after the physician’s initial consultation, catered to the unique patient characteristics, appetite patterns, and medical history. Obesity is a chronic health condition and should be treated like all other health conditions. Medical therapy and lifestyle intervention go hand in hand when addressing excess weight or obesity.
For all OHIP-covered patients, a referral is required by your family physician. We also welcome patients who want to pay privately for the services, especially if they are not covered by OHIP. If you are interested in our program, you may print the referral form and take it to your family physician for completion.
Visits with the MD and fitness coach are conducted in person, while consultations with the health coach and dietitian can be done virtually. In-person visits with the MD are strongly encouraged, as body composition analyses are performed during these appointments. This allows us to monitor your muscle mass, which is crucial to ensure you are not losing muscle during the weight loss process—a common side effect of weight loss that we aim to avoid.
Although medication is an important aspect of our program, medical experts agree: the combination of weight loss medications and lifestyle changes is the most effective approach to sustainable weight loss. With this in mind, we encourage you to then enroll in her 12-month program to achieve at least 10% of your weight.
If your insurance covers services like dietitian, nutritionist, or psychological counseling/psychotherapy, our services are likely to be covered. We encourage all patients to review their health benefit package prior to the initial consultation to confirm coverage. You can also use your health saving account funds towards the cost of your treatment.
As part of our commitment to providing the best care, we offer a free initial consultation with the doctor for OHIP-covered patients, as well as a follow-up appointment. However, it’s important to emphasize that regular follow-up is essential to monitor progress and ensure appropriate care. Research shows that for successful weight loss, patients benefit from follow-up visits approximately every two weeks.
Our program is carefully designed to provide a comprehensive, personalized approach that includes support from dietitians, psychotherapists, fitness coaches, and other experts who work together to address all aspects of weight management. By engaging with the full program, you benefit from a well-rounded, scientifically backed strategy, ensuring lasting success.
Anyone with concerns regarding their health can join the program. Typically, our patients are between the ages of 18 and 75 years. We do not enroll patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have active gall bladder issues, or active cancer. We also don’t enroll patients with ongoing bulimia or anorexia.
We will call you within 1 week of referral; wait time for an initial consultation is currently 7-10 days.
Yes, but the program prices will be different as they will then include physician consult and follow-up fees, which are typically covered by OHIP for residents of Ontario, Canada.
We’ll never restrict your diet. Instead, we’ll help you restructure it. Our approach to diet is flexible and works with nearly all dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, kosher, vegan, and lactose-free (to name just a few). We strive to help you establish a sustainable and flexible approach to nutrition that focuses on minimizing fast-digesting carbs and making healthier choices that include protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
The Metamed weight management program is not a diet. We help you create a healthy, sustainable way of eating that promotes weight loss and sets you up for long-term health. Through our nutritional guidance and the support of our medical team, you’ll learn how to build healthier food habits into the life you’re already living.
The Metamed program is a medically guided weight loss program specifically designed to address obesity as a health condition. If you’ve struggled with weight loss, chances are traditional strategies haven’t worked for you. At Metamed, our team understands the complexities of obesity and, under the guidance of an obesity specialist, tailors recommendations to meet your individual needs. This collaborative approach, combining medical expertise with personalized care, is unique to Metamed and cannot be replicated by other health professionals.
Please note that the program includes all services, and you cannot select or refuse certain services at your own discretion. The cost of the program is inclusive of all services provided to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to your weight loss journey.
Studies show that it takes a minimum of 6 months for behavior change to become a lasting habit. At Metamed, we require a minimum 3-month commitment to provide you with the time needed to learn and implement key lifestyle changes. We recommend continuing beyond the initial 3 months for optimal, sustainable results. After this period, you can renew your membership to continue your journey.
Unlike other programs, Metamed’s approach is holistic, with a strong focus on behavior change, which is crucial for long-term success. We offer 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month program options to ensure flexibility and the best outcomes for your weight loss journey.
On average, patients lose about one pound per week, which is a healthy and sustainable rate of weight loss that helps preserve muscle mass. Typically, patients can expect the following average weight loss during our program:
• 17 lbs in 3 months
• 36 lbs in 6 months
• 58 lbs in 12 months
Studies show that even a modest 10% weight loss can lead to significant health improvements, including the resolution of fatty liver, prediabetes, and better cholesterol levels. A 10% weight loss can also reduce the number of blood pressure medications you may need. If you have mild to moderate sleep apnea, a 15% weight loss is recommended, and more than 15% weight loss can help reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
The optimal duration and approach for your weight loss journey will be tailored to your current weight and health goals by our weight loss physician during your consultation.