Seeing an Endocrinologist for Obesity - A Checklist for Patients

	Do your research: Identify an endocrinologist specially trained in the condition category appropriate for you. Endocrinologists can be referred by your primary care provider, a friend, your employer’s benefits manager, or professional associations, such as The Endocrine Society or its patient education affiliate The Hormone Foundation.
	Be prepared: At your first appointment, you will be asked to complete a personal and family medical history. Be sure to have this information handy prior to your visit.
	Ask questions: Ask your endocrinologist to review all appropriate treatment options for you. Make sure to ask questions about lifestyle modifications, weight loss prescription products, non-prescription supplements/ alternatives and surgical options for obesity.
	Provide details/Don’t be shy: When discussing your obesity condition and treatment options, remember to talk about every aspect of your life, including the kind of lifestyle you lead, your ability to make changes in diet or activity level, your attitude about weight loss, your attitude about vitamins, supplements and weight loss prescription medications, your personal and family health history, and any past or current medical conditions that might impact your diagnosis or treatment.
	Partner with your endocrinologist: Make your endocrinologist part of the “whole” team approach. Once you and your doctor have discussed your health history and current symptoms, work together to decide the right plan of attack – whether it’s with medical treatment, lifestyle changes or both.
	Keep a diary: Do your homework by tracking your weight loss and physical symptoms and their impact on how you feel. This will keep your endocrinologist informed about how well the weight loss treatment or lifestyle modifications are working.