Veterans have shouldered the extra burden of honor, duty and sacrifice, but … they do not have to carry the burden of extra weight.

Nationwide, VA serves more than 5 million veterans, of whom about 70% are overweight and approximately 30% are obese. West Palm Beach VA Medical Center responded with the implementation of the multidisciplinary MOVE (Managing Obesity for Veterans Everywhere) program.

MOVE is a national VA weight management program designed by the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention and the Office of Patient Care Services to help veterans lose weight, keep it off and improve their health.

The Program Features:

  • Emphasis on health and wellness through nutrition, physical activity and behavior change
  • Lifetime and lifestyle focus
  • Patient-centered approach
  • Individual tailoring to meet the needs of the veteran
  • MOVE website with educational materials
  • Regular follow-up and support

The MOVE program is divided into different levels to meet the individual needs of the veteran.

Level 1:

  • Screening for the MOVE program using the electronic medical record.
  • A questionnaire is completed that is used to design an individual plan for the veteran.
  • A tailored set of written recommendations is given.
  • An opportunity to meet with a registered dietitian in a small group setting to set some beginning goals.
  • On-going monitoring and support.

Level 2:

Everything in level 1 plus …

  • An opportunity to participate in weekly onsite small group sessions led by multidisciplinary clinicians such as a registered dietitian, behavioral health psychologist, kinesiotherapist and pharmacist.
  • Receive education as well as strategies that lead to successful weight management and weight loss.
  • An opportunity to meet one-on-one with a VA healthcare team member such as a registered dietitian, physical activity specialist or behavioral health expert.
  • An opportunity to use the on site gym free of charge.
  • Ongoing monitoring and support.

At the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center, the MOVE program has been in existent for two years. About 70% of veterans enrolling in MOVE Level 2 complete the six week program. Results have been positive with an estimated 80% demonstrating successful weight loss. Additionally, some veterans are able to discontinue medications for diabetes and blood pressure after successful weight loss. To support weight management goals, veterans are encouraged to stay involved and attend future classes or support groups. Monitoring is ongoing to sustain changes.

Nationwide, over 46,000 veterans have enrolled in the MOVE program. It is the largest and most comprehensive weight management and physical activity program associated with a medical care system in the United States. The MOVE program is the recipient of the American Dietetic Association 2007 Presidents’ Circle Nutrition Education Award.