THIS week's contribution is from Sonja Bella, Director, Australian College of Weight Management: Weight Loss Consulting vs Weight Loss Products - As mentioned in the previous article, implementing a weight management program, or clinic, which also addresses behavioural changes could be a game changer in the pharmacy industry and one that could make a significant impact in helping turn around the obesity epidemic.
Most pharmacies have at least one brand of weight loss products, generally shake based programs, with larger pharmacies having an array of products available. The problem with weight loss products alone, is that they don't address the behavioural changes that are required in order for consumers to make long-term changes to their lifestyle.
Pharmacies could implement a Weight Loss Counselling or Consulting service by employing (or contracting) a Weight Management Practitioner or upskilling their Pharmacy Assistants with a qualification such as the Certificate IV in Weight Management. This would provide in-house skills and knowledge to help consumers implement a holistic weight management program including behaviour changes, which would greatly compliment any weight loss products offered by the pharmacy.
An in-house weight loss program, whether one-on-one or group-based (for larger pharmacies that could accommodate 6-10 people) would not only help consumers to finally get off the dieting merry-go-round but also increase revenue through a new service and increased product sales.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 18 Jun 18
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