(601) 983-7494

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It's A HEALTH INITIATIVE 101 WHO – The Mississippi Against Obesity Foundation, MAOFoundation.com, a not-for-profit 501c3 organization that has been in existence since 2007. MAO Foundation provides a virtual wellness and weight loss program specifically for overweight, obese and morbidly obese seniors 65 and older. MAO Foundation began assisting men, women and children in 2007. Due to the pandemic and comorbidities that made a negative outcome more likely, MAOF’s Health Initiative 101 is specifically targeted to seniors. Participants must have a BMI of 30 or greater to qualify. Application may be done by phone, takes approximately 10 minutes, or you may apply online at MAOFoundation.com WHAT – Health Initiative 101 is a virtual wellness and weight loss program. Participants may use phone and/or computer to connect with licensed healthcare providers. Two to three initial assessments are done in order to determine the program that best fits that participant. Goals are set collectively so that they are attainable. Medicare sponsors the portion of the program with the nurse practitioner that is guided to assist with diet and nutrition. Medicare requires a 6.6 pounds documented weight loss by the end of the first six months. If this is not accomplished, the participant may wait six months before another attempt. MAO Foundation assists by providing physical activity done virtually and behavioral health counseling. Medicare is billed for the eligible services for which it pays and MAO Foundation pays the remainder. Eligible participants have no out- of -pocket fees. MAO Foundation does not sell, endorse, or prescribe any weight loss medication. MAO Foundation encourages targeting 4-8 pounds per month of weight loss, depending on the participant. MAO Foundation will refer the participant back to their PCP for evaluation and to adjust medications after each 15 pounds lost. This program is offered to Mississippi residents. WHEN – Health Initiative 101 is offered Monday thru Friday between 8-5 by phone and/or computer. Participants may make their own schedule to fit their needs. After hours and weekends are available upon request and availability of the provider. Health Initiative 101 is planned to be available through 2027. The goal is to change the numbers reported by the CDC which has projected Mississippi as being the “Fattest State in the Nation” by 2027. Having participants; medication dosages adjusted when indicated and eventually discontinued is another goal. HOW - Health Initiative 101 success depends on providers referring their patients to the program and monitoring their success. Participants’ morale heightens when they meet goals that are achievable. We ask that providers contact MAO Foundation with each referral at 601-983- 7494 or fax referral to 601-345-2312. The program is implemented by Fitness Clinic Wellness which is affiliated with the MAO Foundation. Fitness Clinic Wellness has implemented the wellness and weight loss programs since 2008.