Counterweight has trained staff who will monitor various measurements including weight, finger prick blood glucose testing and blood pressure. Only if blood pressure or blood glucose surpasses the minimum and maximum thresholds will they be referred back to their GP practice. Primary Care is required to complete a 6 and 12-month HbA1c

All necessary changes or deprescribing of medications is required on day 1 of TDR. All medication changes should be communicated and agreed with the patient at the point of referral

There will be a requirement for 6 and 12-month HbA1c as well as the yearly Diabetes Review

If an adverse event is identified whilst on the programme, Counterweight will respond in line with pre-agreed protocols. All adverse events are reviewed by Counterweight’s Medical Team who will ensure that communication back to the GP practice is appropriate and timely.

We do have medical advisors and a medical director who guide our medical protocols. All Counterweight coaches work under supervision from the delivery team lead, senior clinical dietitians and medical advisors

The programme is funded for a total diet replacement (TDR) based approach, there are no alternative options for the initial 12-week period. If patients are unable to tolerate meal replacements for any reason they will be referred back or signposted as appropriate

Counterweight can accommodate most dietary requirements, additionally, we have an allergens and dietary suitability matrix so that patients and Counterweight coaches are well-informed of the suitability of each product

No, people who meet the eligibility criteria and are using a GLP1 medication for weight loss will not be excluded from the programme.

Referral is made by the primary care provider (see referral guide above)

Referrals must come from GP practices. Local teams can agree on the most appropriate referral pathway within the GP practice. This means other health professionals within the practice can refer patients to the programme, where appropriate

If a member of the Counterweight team identifies that a patient needs additional psychological support they will communicate this with the primary care provider

Counterweight have capacity to provide all components of the programme in a range of languages.

Participants will be supplied with:
Total Diet Replacement products
Blood glucose monitor
Weighing scales (if the participant doesn’t already have these at home)
Blood pressure monitor (if on medication for hypertension)

Yes, participants are supplied with a sample pack after their individual assessment to support them in making an informed choice on their product selection.

Counterweight will offer suitable or alternative TDR products where possible for those with intolerances and other dietary or religious preferences.

Discharge information is sent to the primary care provider who continues with annual reviews of the patient