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Strengthening Patient-Caregiver Bonds in Obesity Treatment

On March 2, 2026, the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), in collaboration with the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) Foundation, introduced the "Commit to Care" initiative. This new commitment aims to fortify the relationship between healthcare professionals and patients in managing obesity, a condition increasingly recognized as a chronic disease. As obesity care progresses, effective communication, trust, and collaboration between patients and their providers have never been more crucial.

This initiative highlights mutual expectations that enhance the quality of care. With a clear focus on compassion and science-based treatments, this resource provides patients with a framework to expect respectful and personalized care options while ensuring healthcare providers commit to listening empathetically, devoid of preconceived biases. This dual approach aims to eliminate the stigma often associated with weight management.

James Zervios, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of OAC, elucidated the ongoing struggles faced by individuals impacted by obesity, often exacerbated by a healthcare environment permeated with weight bias. He stated, "Through this co-produced resource, the OAC and ABOM Foundation aim to improve conversations between patients and clinicians to positively and effectively improve the lives of those affected by this disease."

Dr. Kimberly Gudzune, Chief Medical Officer for the ABOM Foundation, added, "It's critically important for healthcare professionals and patients to have care partnerships based on respect, compassion, and medical science. These commitments aim to support individuals living with obesity centered on these principles."

The Core of the Commit to Care Promise

The "Commit to Care" document delineates essential commitments for both parties involved in obesity care. From the patient's perspective, it reassures them of their right to receive respectful treatment and individualized care. In contrast, healthcare providers are encouraged to prioritize respect, establish open lines of communication, and provide a range of treatment approaches that include, but are not limited to, lifestyle interventions, pharmacological solutions, and surgical options.

Moreover, this initiative addresses a significant barrier in obesity care where conversations often are skewed by stigma rather than grounded in scientific evidence. The document encourages both patients and clinicians to come into appointments with aligned expectations based on respect and partnership—minerals that are vital for constructive dialogue.

In practice, this initiative offers guidelines to improve communication and care delivery in healthcare settings. It encourages clinicians to evaluate their language, patient interactions, and the overall accessibility of facilities for patients of various body sizes. The commitment is underscored by the understanding that sustainable health outcomes are best achieved through long-term partnerships between patients and clinicians.

Resources for Patients and Clinicians

Beyond the promise document, the initiative provides individuals with access to a suite of educational tools curated by OAC, including the "Your Weight Matters Challenge." This program offers conversation starters and resources to assist those affected by obesity in engaging with their healthcare providers about suitable treatment pathways and support mechanisms.

OAC and the ABOM Foundation strongly advocate for patients, clinicians, and community supporters to review and disseminate these resources, enhancing access to compassionate, evidence-driven obesity care nationwide. The complete "Commit to Care" promise is available for viewing and downloading here.

About OAC and ABOM Foundation

The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by obesity through education, advocacy, and support. The ABOM Foundation is dedicated to advancing obesity medicine by enhancing education and professional development while improving access to quality obesity care.

As we navigate an era of evolving obesity care, initiatives like the "Commit to Care" promise play a pivotal role in shaping the future of patient-provider relationships, ensuring that everyone affected by obesity receives the support they need to thrive.