The Weight Control Information Network, part of the National Institutes of Health, offers the following guidance when choosing a weight loss program:

Choosing a Safe and Successful Weight Loss Program

Experts agree that the best way to reach a healthy weight is to follow a sensible eating plan and engage in regular physical activity.  Weight-loss programs should encourage healthy behaviors that help you lose weight and that you can maintain over time.  Safe and effective weight-loss programs should include:

• Healthy eating plans that reduce calories but do not rule out specific foods or food groups
• Regular physical activity and/or exercise instruction
• Tips on healthy behavior changes that also consider your cultural needs
• Slow and steady weight loss of about 3/4 to 2 pounds per week and not more than 3 pounds per week (weight loss may be faster at the start of a program)
• Medical care if you are planning to lose weight by following a special formula diet, such as a very-low-calorie diet
• A plan to keep the weight off after you have lost it

Ask Questions

Gather as much information as you can before deciding to join a program. Providers of weight-loss programs should be able to answer these questions:

• What does the weight-loss program consist of?
• What are the staff qualifications?
• Does the product or program carry any risks?
• How much does the program costs?
• What results do participants typically have?
• Does the program offer individual counseling and/or group classes?
• Do you have to follow a specific meal plan or keep food records?
• Do you have to purchase special food, drugs or supplements?
• Does the program encourage you to be physically active, follow a specific physical activity plan or provide exercise instruction?
• Does the program provide information on how to make positive and healthy behavior changes?
• Is the program sensitive to your lifestyle and cultural needs?

What are the staff qualifications?

• Who supervises the program?
• What type of weight management training, experience, education and certifications does the staff have?

Does the product or program carry any risks?

• Are there risks related to following the program's eating or exercise plans?
• Are there risks related to using recommended drugs or supplements?
• Do participants talk with a medical professional?
• Does a medical professional oversee the program?
• Will the program providers work with your personal health care provider if you have a medical condition or are taking prescribed medications?

How much does the program cost?

• What is the total cost of the program?
• Are there recurring costs such as weekly attendance fees, costs of food and supplement purchases, etc?
• Are there additional fees for a follow-up program or to re-enter the program for follow-up after you lose weight?
• Are there additional fees for medical tests?

What results do participants typically have?

• How much weight does an average participant lose and how long have they kept off all or part of their weight?
• Can the program provide references?

If you are interested in locating a weight-loss program in your area, ask your health care provider for a referral or contact your local hospital.

Source:  Weight-control Information Network (WIN)

Local Weight Management Programs

KidShape
Family based pediatric weight management program empowering families with overweight children, ages 6 to 14, to develop more healthy lifestyles. Classes meet each Tuesday for 9 weeks.

Contact:
Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County
437 West Berkeley Street
Uniontown, PA 15401
(724) 439-1484

Class dates:
March 21, 2006 to May 23, 2006
September 19, 2006 to November 21, 2006
January 9, 2007 to March 6, 2007

Weight Watchers – Belle Vernon Gabriel Brothers Plaza
163 Finley Road #3B
Belle Vernon, PA 15012
Monday 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday 6 p.m.
Wednesday 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Thursday 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.

Weight Watchers – Calvary Assembly of God
1316 South Pittsburgh Street
Connellsville, PA 15425
Monday 5:30 p.m.

Weight Watchers – First Presbyterian Church
102 West Church Avenue
Masontown, PA 15461
Wednesday 6 p.m.

Weight Watchers – Uniontown Mall
1368 West Main Street
Uniontown, PA 15401
Monday 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Thursday 6 p.m.
Saturday 11:30 a.m.