Health Coach as part of an Allied Health Team.

It’s no secret that physical inactivity continues to be a concern in the U.S. and globally. Obesity is one of the major conditions affecting physically inactive individuals. Currently, almost 36 percent of adults and 17 percent of children are affected by obesity, and obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease are among the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S.
Given the rising costs of healthcare, the allied health and medical communities are struggling to find ways to shift to a more preventive approach when working with clients and patients impacted by overweight and obesity (and anyone else who is trying to change their lifestyle to make more healthful choices). Given the traditional prescriptive model of the healthcare system, the ability to shift to a more preventive focus takes time and is a huge paradigm shift for many people.
Integrating health coaches into our healthcare system is one effective way that we can work toward a more preventive approach. A health coach works alongside an individual to help them make successful behavioral changes, which is different from the prescriptive model. Health coaching is often done in small group environments, face-to-face, online, or via telephone. Given the versatility and scope of the health coach, their ability to work within the healthcare system is now being seen as an important role. As part of a collaborative approach to healthcare, independent health coaches work as part of the healthcare team, or those already working within the healthcare system (e.g., registered nurses, physicians, medical assistants, etc.) are becoming health coaches.
The Health Coach acts as a guide in making weight-related behavioral changes using; education, goal setting, motivation, programming, and referral to extrinsic team members when necessary. The extrinsic team includes the Personal Trainer, Nutritionist/Registered Dietitian, Psychologist/Psychiatrist, Primary Care Physician, Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, Physical Therapist, and other professionals.

Kenroy Grant,

ACE Certified Health Coach/Personal Trainer

404-587-0419,

khenarh@yahoo.com