Healthy Weight: Support that goes beyond the scale
June 18, 2026
By a Virginia Green, CNP, Family Medicine, Winona Health
As a Family Medicine provider, I have many conversations that begin the same way:
“I just need to lose some weight.”
What I often hear underneath that statement is something deeper.
“I’m tired all the time.” “I’m worried about my blood pressure.” “I don’t sleep well.” “I get winded too easily.” “I want to keep up with my grandkids.”
Virginia Green, CNP, Family Medicine
Weight is rarely just about a number on the scale. It’s about energy. Blood pressure. Blood sugar. Mobility. Confidence. Long-term health. It’s about feeling well in your everyday life.
That’s why the Winona Health Weight and Wellness Clinic was established — a program designed to focus on overall health, not simply the scale.
We focus on the whole you This program takes a holistic, team-based approach to care. Rather than focusing on one strategy or one appointment, we address
- Nutrition
- Movement
- Stress and sleep
- Behavioral health
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
These pieces are connected, and lasting change happens when they are treated that way. Our goal isn’t appearance. It’s better health outcomes.
- Reduce your blood sugar
- Lower your blood pressure
- Move more comfortably
- Sleep better
- Stay independent longer
A sustainable approach to weight loss If you’re looking for quick fixes or unrealistic promises — this isn’t that. This is steady, medically guided progress with a team behind you. No shame. No extremes. No traveling elsewhere for care. Just thoughtful, coordinated support from providers you already know and trust.
Your plan works alongside your primary care provider, not separate from it, so if you’re managing diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, or other conditions, everything stays connected.
What to expect The Weight and Wellness Clinic uses an interdisciplinary care team model. Each plan is personalized, but here’s a general overview:
Provider visit Your initial visit includes a comprehensive history review, discussion of past weight loss attempts, data collection, and possibly lab work. Follow-up visits focus on progress, challenges, and medication management if appropriate.
Pharmacist support Available to answer medication questions and help navigate insurance coverage.
Therapists Help you identify realistic goals, overcome barriers, manage expectations, and build long-term strategies for maintaining progress. We talk about readiness for change, coping skills, and even setting boundaries when needed.
Dietitian Provides individualized nutrition therapy and guidance to support sustainable weight loss.
Exercise support Your movement journey begins in our Cardiac Rehabilitation Department, where you’ll be introduced to safe, foundational exercise and guided movement. From there, we’ll help you transition into a personalized program designed to support your lifestyle, goals and long-term well-being.
Program eligibility The program is designed for adults age 18 and older with a Body Mass Index greater than 35 who receive care from a Winona Health primary care provider. Motivation and consistent participation are essential. Motivation is listed for a reason. Long-term change requires commitment and consistency — and we’re here to support you through both. Regular attendance at scheduled visits is essential for success.
Will I need medication? Not everyone requires weight loss medication. That decision is made together during your provider visits and depends on your health history, other medications, and insurance coverage.
What happens after I reach my goals? Most patients remain in the program for 12–18 months. Once goals are met, we transition you to a long-term maintenance plan so the progress you’ve worked hard for continues.
If you’re interested in bariatric surgery, we can also discuss referrals and next steps.
Let’s talk about insurance Every insurance plan is different, and many provide some coverage for weight and wellness services. If you’re unsure what your plan includes, our Patient Resource Center can walk you through it before you begin. They’re located on the first floor of the clinic and offer free support to help you understand your benefits, potential costs, and available community resources. You can also call 507.457.7632 to speak with a Patient Resource Specialist. We want you to feel informed and comfortable every step of the way.
Losing weight may be the reason someone starts this journey. Improving overall health — and maintaining it — should be the reason you continue the journey.
To learn more about the Weight and Wellness Clinic at Winona Health, talk with your primary care provider, call 507.457.7648 or visit winonahealth.org/healthyweight.