Over the last four years, the University of Iowa Health Care Weight Management Clinic has made remarkable strides in addressing one of the most pervasive health challenges in the country: obesity. With rates affecting more than 40% of the national population in any age group, the need for effective, accessible, and comprehensive obesity care across specialties in UI Health Care has never been greater.

Obesity is a complex condition influenced by a multitude of factors. The state of Iowa, for example, has one of the highest obesity rates in the country, with more than 35% of state residents affected. The clinic’s team often treats people with obesity as part of their broader health challenges, ranging from joint replacements to organ transplants.

In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, the clinic’s capacity for providing care was limited. At that time, only one full-time provider was available in clinic, and new patients were often put on a wait list for up to a year to be seen for the first time. However, the program has since undergone significant growth: by hiring Leon Jons, MD, a weight management specialist, along with four full-time advanced practice providers, the clinic was able to shrink wait time by as much as 83%.

“Every clinic should have a weight loss expert,” Jons, a clinical associate professor in Endocrinology and Metabolism, emphasized. “It affects so many disciplines, medical issues, and problems.”

In October 2024, Jons was announced as Director of the Endocrine Medical Weight Management Program. In announcing this to the division, the Director for the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ayotunde Dokun, MD, PhD, FACE, said, “Dr. Jons will be involved in the implementation of weight management initiatives, and the training of APPs and new faculty. He will work closely with our team to ensure that we continue to provide the highest level of care and support to our patients on their wellness journeys.”

The clinic’s comprehensive approach to obesity emphasizes sustainability over short-term fixes, recognizing the profound impact of weight management on conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and more. The clinic also now accepts self-referrals and internal referrals, which helps ensure more timely access for patients. This also allows the clinic to more effectively address more complex health concerns including endocranial hypertension, orthopedic issues, pulmonary conditions, cardiovascular health, and oncology care.

Moreover, the clinic has prioritized addressing weight stigma, which remains a significant barrier to care. Leaders like Katie Robinson, MD, PhD, assistant professor in Endocrinology and Metabolism, have focused on educating health care providers across the state about the stigma that patients with obesity face, especially within medical settings. This effort aims to create a more compassionate and supportive environment for patients.

“We see a lot of complicated patients,” Jons explained. “Weight is involved in so many issues. Helping people be successful is hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”

Looking ahead, the clinic is committed to sustaining its growth and access. This includes expanding its team and continuing to train residents, fellows, and medical students who regularly rotate through the clinic, gaining hands-on experience in obesity care to carry into the next generation. This educational mission also extends to teaching other established specialists and providers of how to better understand and manage obesity in their own practices.

The clinic’s efforts are a testament to the transformative power of addressing obesity comprehensively. By combining clinical care, education, and advocacy, the weight management program is not only improving individual lives but also shaping the future of obesity care.