What to Expect in Your First Virtual Weight Loss Appointment

Introduction: Your First Step Toward Sustainable Weight Loss

Starting a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming—especially when it begins virtually. If you're scheduling your first virtual weight loss appointment, you may be wondering:

• What will the visit be like?

• Do I need labs or paperwork?

• Will I get a prescription?

• Is this really as effective as an in-person visit?

The good news is: telehealth weight loss care is safe, effective, and incredibly convenient—especially when guided by a board-certified physician like Dr. Nisha Kuruvadi.

💡 Key Takeaway: With the right doctor and preparation, your first virtual appointment can set the tone for a successful, personalized weight loss journey.

Meet Your Doctor: Dr. Nisha Kuruvadi

Dr. Nisha Kuruvadi is a board-certified Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine physician serving patients across California via telehealth.

She combines:

• 🧠 Medical expertise in weight loss medications (GLP-1, metabolic support)

• 🌿 Lifestyle medicine training (plant-based nutrition, behavioral coaching)

• 💻 HIPAA-compliant telehealth tools for secure, seamless care

Her goal? To help each patient feel seen, supported, and successful, whether they're just starting out or trying again after failed diets.

What Happens During Your First Virtual Weight Loss Appointment?

Here’s what you can expect, step-by-step.

1. 🖥️ Virtual Check-In

You’ll receive a secure telehealth link. When your visit starts, you’ll meet Dr. Kuruvadi face-to-face (virtually), from the comfort of your home.

💡 TIP: Use a quiet, private space with good lighting and a strong internet connection.

2. 🗂️ Medical History Review

Dr. Kuruvadi will ask about:

• Your past weight loss efforts

• Current medications and conditions

• History of diabetes, thyroid issues, high blood pressure, etc.

• Sleep, energy, cravings, and stress

📋 You don’t need to memorize everything—just have your med list and any recent labs handy.

3. ⚖️ Body & Lifestyle Assessment

You’ll discuss:

• Your current weight and goal

• Eating habits and nutrition preferences

• Exercise or activity levels

• Emotional eating, binge triggers, or food addiction

• Menstrual cycle, menopause, or testosterone issues (if relevant)

Dr. Kuruvadi creates a safe space—no judgment, just support.

4. 🩺 Review of Labs or Recommended Testing

If you’ve had recent labs (A1C, cholesterol, thyroid, vitamin D), bring those to your appointment.

If not, Dr. Kuruvadi may order:

• 🧪 A1C and fasting glucose

• 🧪 Lipid panel (cholesterol)

• 🧪 Thyroid function

• 🧪 Kidney/liver function (for medication eligibility)

• 🧪 Hormone panels if needed (especially for women over 40)

💡 These help identify metabolic issues that may block weight loss.

5. 💊 Medication Discussion (If Applicable)

If appropriate, Dr. Kuruvadi may recommend:

• GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro)

• Appetite suppressants (only when safe)

• Supplements for nutrient support

• Lab monitoring to ensure safety

All prescriptions are sent electronically to your pharmacy.

What You Should Prepare Before Your Appointment

To get the most from your first virtual visit, prepare the following:

✅ 1. Basic Health Info

• Current weight and height

• Medication list

• Past weight history (highest/lowest weight in recent years)

✅ 2. Lifestyle Details

• A 3-day food journal (optional but helpful)

• Exercise or daily activity habits

• Sleep patterns (hours per night, quality)

• Any relevant emotional/mental health struggles

✅ 3. Lab Results (if available)

• A1C, cholesterol, glucose, thyroid, etc.

• Past physical exam or doctor's notes

✅ 4. Device Setup

• Internet-ready device with camera

• Headphones (for privacy if needed)

• Wearable data (Fitbit, Apple Watch, etc. optional)

Patient Safety & HIPAA Compliance

Your privacy is protected during virtual appointments.

Dr. Kuruvadi uses HIPAA-compliant telehealth platforms that:

• Encrypt video and chat communication

• Do not record sessions

• Keep patient records secure and accessible only to you and your doctor

💡 Important: Your visit is treated the same as an in-person clinical appointment—with the same privacy, care, and legal protections.

What Happens After Your First Appointment?

Here’s what your next steps may include:

📧 1. Personalized Treatment Plan

You’ll receive a secure summary that may include:

• Recommended nutrition strategies

• Activity and lifestyle goals

• Prescriptions (if applicable)

• Next lab dates or goals

🔁 2. Ongoing Follow-Up Visits

Most patients check in:

• Every 4–6 weeks initially

• Adjust frequency based on progress and needs

• Short 15–30 minute sessions for updates, encouragement, and adjustments

💊 3. Medication Monitoring

If prescribed GLP-1 or other weight loss meds, Dr. Kuruvadi will:

• Monitor labs regularly

• Assess side effects or dosage adjustments

• Help you taper off if/when appropriate

🧠 4. Long-Term Support

You’ll work together to:

• Set realistic expectations

• Prevent plateaus or regain

• Adjust goals through life's changes (menopause, stress, travel, etc.)

FAQs: Virtual Weight Loss Appointments

Q1: Is a virtual appointment really effective for weight loss? Yes. With proper assessment, labs, and coaching, telehealth provides equal or better outcomes compared to in-person visits.

Q2: Will I get a prescription during my first visit? Possibly. If appropriate and safe, Dr. Kuruvadi may prescribe medication such as GLP-1s right after your first appointment.

Q3: Can I use insurance for the visit? Many insurance plans cover telehealth. Check your policy or ask the clinic for guidance.

Q4: Do I need to weigh myself or have a scale at home? It helps! A home scale allows you to track progress between visits, but it's not required to start.

Q5: How soon will I see results? Some patients see changes in the first few weeks. Sustainable progress typically builds over months with consistent care.

Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward a Healthier You

Your first virtual weight loss appointment is more than a conversation—it’s the beginning of a customized, medically-supported journey toward lasting health.

With Dr. Nisha Kuruvadi’s expert guidance, you’ll receive:

• A comprehensive evaluation

• A realistic and effective plan

• Compassionate, non-judgmental support

The convenience of telehealth from home