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Clinician-Supervised Programs

Medical Weight Loss

Lose Weight With Science, Not Willpower

Our clinician-supervised programs combine GLP-1 injectables, oral options, and metabolic support with advanced diagnostics to address the biological root causes of weight gain. If diets, willpower, and "eat less, move more" haven't worked, it's not your fault.

Licensed U.S. Pharmacies Clinician-Supervised Telehealth Available
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 How it works

Starting at $200/mo · No contracts · HSA/FSA accepted

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Why We're Different

Not Another Diet Clinic

Lab-Driven Protocols

When clinically indicated, we run comprehensive bloodwork — up to 40+ biomarkers — to understand your unique metabolic profile. Every protocol starts with a thorough clinical evaluation, not a guess.

Clinician-Supervised

Every protocol is managed by licensed medical professionals with 10+ years of experience. Regular check-ins and dosage adjustments are standard. Lab retesting is billed separately when clinically indicated.

Root-Cause Approach

Weight gain is often a symptom of hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, or thyroid dysfunction. We find and fix the underlying cause — not just suppress your appetite.

Sustainable Results

We don't just help you lose weight — we optimize your metabolism so you can maintain your results long-term. Our patients keep the weight off because we address why it was there in the first place.

So what does a clinician-supervised protocol actually look like?

Medication Options

Proven Medications, Personalized Dosing

We prescribe GLP-1 receptor agonists for medical weight loss, compounded or brand-name. Our compounded formulations are prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies, and your clinician selects the right medication and dosing schedule based on your health evaluation, medical history, and goals.

Semaglutide

A GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces appetite and slows gastric emptying, prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy.

  • Up to 15% body weight loss in clinical trials
  • Weekly injection
  • The most extensively studied GLP-1 for weight management
  • Clinician-supervised dosing and follow-up
Starting at $200 / month

Medication included. Labs billed separately when clinically indicated.

Tirzepatide

A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that targets two metabolic pathways, prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy.

  • Up to 22.5% body weight loss in clinical trials
  • Weekly injection
  • Dual-pathway mechanism for enhanced results
  • Clinician-supervised dosing and follow-up
Starting at $250 / month

Medication included. Labs billed separately when clinically indicated.

Oral Medication Options Available

Not a candidate for injectables? We also prescribe oral weight loss medications (phentermine, Contrave, and others) with a comprehensive initial visit ($100) and affordable follow-ups ($59). Medications are sent directly to your pharmacy. This is our clinical supervision fee. Medication is billed separately by your pharmacy. Labs billed separately when clinically indicated.

Brand-Name GLP-1 Medications

If your insurance covers Wegovy or Zepbound, that is often the lowest out-of-pocket path. We prescribe brand-name GLP-1 medications and send the prescription to your pharmacy.

Clinical supervision is $100 for your first visit, then $59 per follow-up. That is our clinic fee. The medication is billed by your pharmacy, and what you pay depends on your coverage.

We submit the prior authorization and appeal denials where we can. Approval is ultimately your insurer's decision.

Everything else matches our compounded program: visits, InBody body composition scans at every visit, and dose adjustments. Labs are billed separately when clinically indicated.

If coverage falls through, we can move you to a compounded option without starting over.

Individual results may vary. All medications are prescribed after a thorough medical evaluation by a licensed clinician. Common side effects may include nausea, which typically resolves within the first few weeks. Your clinician will discuss all potential side effects before starting treatment. Prices reflect starting rates and may vary based on your personalized protocol. Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies and are not FDA-approved finished products. Eligibility for medication is determined by a licensed clinician.

Find Your Weight Loss Protocol

Every program includes clinician-supervised dosing, regular check-ins, and ongoing adjustments. The right medication depends on your body, your history, and your goals.

GLP-1 Injectable

Semaglutide

The most widely prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonist — proven to reduce appetite and support sustained weight loss. Weekly injections, personalized dosing, all supplies included.

Starting at $200/mo

Learn About Semaglutide →

Dual GIP/GLP-1 Injectable

Tirzepatide

The newest dual-action injectable targeting both GIP and GLP-1 receptors — clinical trials show it delivers the most significant weight loss outcomes in the GLP-1 class.

Starting at $250/mo

Learn About Tirzepatide →

Non-Injectable Program

Phentermine & Oral Medications

Prefer to skip the needle? Our oral weight loss program pairs clinician-supervised appetite suppressants with metabolic monitoring — a proven path for patients who want effective results without injections.

$100 initial · $59 follow-ups

Learn About Oral Options →

Starting is simpler than you'd expect.

What to Expect

How the Program Works

01

Initial Consultation

Schedule a consultation with our clinical team to review your health history, symptoms, current medications, and goals. Your clinician determines the best path forward based on your individual profile. Want to learn more first? Free informational calls are available — just ask.

Led by Mathew Hammons, PA-C — 15+ years in obesity medicine

02

Clinical Evaluation

Your clinician evaluates your full health picture — and when indicated, orders advanced lab panels covering metabolic markers, hormone levels, thyroid function, insulin resistance, and more. We dig deeper than a standard checkup to identify what's actually driving your weight.

03

Your Personalized Protocol

Based on your lab results and health profile, your clinician builds a weight loss protocol designed specifically for you. Medication is shipped quickly, discreetly, and directly to your door.

04

Ongoing Monitoring & Support

Regular check-ins and dosage adjustments are built into every protocol. Lab retesting is billed separately when clinically indicated. We stay with you through plateaus, celebrate your wins, and adjust your plan as your body changes. This isn't a "prescribe and disappear" program.

See If You're a Candidate

No obligation · Takes 2 minutes

But don't take our word for it.

Patient Stories

Real People. Real Results.

Read all 195+ patient reviews →
★★★★★

"Optimized Health has the best staff and help guide me through my journey to lose the weight (60 lbs). Now we are on maintenance. Highly recommend!"

Trella J.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"I extremely happy with my results. So far I've lost 40bs. The employees there are so respectful and will answer all your questions."

Colette R.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"Optimized Health in Joplin has amazing people. The process with them is quick and easy. I have lost 30 pounds with their help. So happy with my progress."

Lana N.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"During my 2nd month, I experienced severe nausea to the point I was ready to quit. The staff worked with me to change the medication and solve the problem. I am very pleased with my results."

Sandy L.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"Optimized Health has the best staff and help guide me through my journey to lose the weight (60 lbs). Now we are on maintenance. Highly recommend!"

Trella J.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"I extremely happy with my results. So far I've lost 40bs. The employees there are so respectful and will answer all your questions."

Colette R.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"Optimized Health in Joplin has amazing people. The process with them is quick and easy. I have lost 30 pounds with their help. So happy with my progress."

Lana N.
via Google Reviews
★★★★★

"During my 2nd month, I experienced severe nausea to the point I was ready to quit. The staff worked with me to change the medication and solve the problem. I am very pleased with my results."

Sandy L.
via Google Reviews
See all 195+ reviews on Google →

Results may vary. Individual outcomes depend on health conditions and adherence to the prescribed protocol.

Is This Right for You?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Medical Weight Loss?

If you've tried to lose weight but your results never lasted, you're not alone — and it's not a willpower problem. Many patients come to us after dieting, exercising, and doing everything right without lasting success. When the underlying issue is metabolic, hormonal, or appetite-related, medical support can make the difference.

You May Be a Good Candidate If…

  • Your BMI is 30+ (or 27+ with a weight-related health condition)
  • You've tried dieting and exercise without lasting results
  • You suspect hormonal or metabolic factors are involved
  • You're motivated to make sustainable changes with medical support
  • You're in one of our service states (MO, KS, IA, UT, WA)

This Program May Not Be Right If…

  • You're pregnant or planning to become pregnant
  • You have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • You have a history of pancreatitis
  • You're looking for a quick fix without clinical oversight

Your clinician will conduct a thorough medical evaluation before prescribing any medication. Safety is always the priority. Not sure if you qualify? Take the eligibility quiz or schedule a consultation or request a free informational call — there's no obligation.

Check Your Eligibility
Why Patients Choose Us

Medical Weight Loss Done Right

Not all weight loss programs deliver the same level of care. Here's how a clinician-supervised program compares to what you'll find at an online-only provider.

Feature Online-Only
Weight Loss Programs
Optimized Health
Medical Weight Loss
Who prescribes An algorithm plus a provider you meet once The same licensed clinician, every visit
Where you're seen Telehealth only In person at our Joplin clinic, by telehealth, or both
Lab testing Rarely included Advanced lab panels available — up to 40+ biomarkers when indicated
Hormone screening Not available Hormone screening when clinically indicated
Tracking progress A number you report yourself InBody body composition scans at every visit, plus free weigh-ins anytime during clinic hours
Dosing Auto-refills on a fixed schedule Adjusted in real time to your progress
Pricing Introductory rates that renew higher Oral programs are $100 for the initial visit, then $59 a month for care, with medication billed by your pharmacy. GLP-1 programs start at $200 a month with medication included.
An exit plan None. The subscription is the business model. A taper plan built in, with clinician monitoring
Between visits An app or a chat queue first Call the clinic and reach our team, not a ticket queue
Behind the screen A national platform A Joplin clinic voted Best of the 4-States for weight loss, four years running
Common Questions

What You Need to Know About Medical Weight Loss

Direct answers to the questions patients ask most about our GLP-1 weight loss program — from how it works to what it costs.

How does medical weight loss work?

Medical weight loss uses FDA-approved GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) combined with clinician supervision, thorough clinical evaluation, and personalized protocols to address the biological causes of weight gain. Unlike diet programs, it treats obesity as a metabolic condition — not a willpower problem. The GLP-1 formulations we dispense are compounded and are not FDA-approved finished products. If weight changes are just one part of a bigger shift in how you feel, this guide on what changes after 40 may provide useful context.

What is semaglutide and how does it cause weight loss?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a naturally occurring gut hormone. It slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite, improves insulin sensitivity, and signals the brain to feel full sooner. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15–20% of body weight over 68 weeks when combined with lifestyle changes.

How is Optimized Health different from online weight loss clinics?

We conduct a thorough clinical evaluation — and when indicated, order advanced lab panels with up to 40+ biomarkers — including metabolic markers, hormone levels, thyroid function, and insulin resistance. Most online clinics prescribe based on a questionnaire. We build every protocol around your actual health profile, then adjust dosing and your plan over time based on ongoing evaluation and check-ins.

How much does medical weight loss cost at Optimized Health?

Injectable GLP-1 programs start at $200/month for semaglutide and $250/month for tirzepatide. We also offer oral medication options starting at $100 for the initial visit and $59 for follow-ups, our clinical supervision fee, with medication billed by your pharmacy. During your initial consultation, we'll walk through pricing specific to your situation. We provide detailed receipts for HSA/FSA reimbursement.

Do I have to come in person or can I do this via telehealth?

We offer both. Patients can be seen in our Joplin, MO clinic or entirely via telehealth. We currently serve telehealth patients in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Utah, and Washington. Lab work can be completed at a local draw site near you, and medications are shipped directly to your door.

Last reviewed by Mathew Hammons, PA-C — August 2026
FAQ

Weight Loss Questions, Answered

Results vary based on your starting point, medications, and adherence to your protocol. Clinical trials show 15–22% body weight loss with GLP-1 medications when combined with lifestyle modifications. Your clinician will set realistic expectations based on your individual health profile during your consultation.
Both are FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists used for chronic weight management. Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) targets the GLP-1 pathway and has shown up to 15% body weight loss in clinical trials. Tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist that targets two metabolic pathways and has shown up to 22.5% body weight loss — the strongest results of any weight loss medication to date. Your clinician will recommend the best option based on your clinical evaluation and health profile.
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are FDA-approved and have been extensively studied in large clinical trials. Like all medications, they have potential side effects. The most common is mild nausea, which typically resolves within the first few weeks as your body adjusts. Your clinician will start at a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects. We monitor you closely throughout treatment.
The most common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and injection site reactions. These are typically mild and resolve within the first 2–4 weeks. Serious side effects are rare but can include pancreatitis and gallbladder issues. Your clinician will review your full medical history and discuss all potential risks before starting treatment. Because GLP-1 medications can affect hydration and nutrient absorption, some patients benefit from periodic IV hydration and nutrient support — particularly during the titration phase when gastrointestinal side effects are most common.
We recommend sustainable lifestyle modifications, but our approach doesn't rely on extreme dieting or punishing exercise routines. GLP-1 medications address the biological drivers of hunger and metabolism, making healthy choices significantly easier. Your clinician may recommend nutritional guidance and moderate activity to optimize your results.
Most of our patients have tried multiple approaches before finding us. The difference is that we address the root biological causes — hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, metabolic dysfunction — rather than just counting calories. When the underlying problem is medical, the solution needs to be medical too.
Treatment duration depends on your goals and progress. Some patients use GLP-1 medications for 6–12 months to reach their goal weight, then transition to a maintenance protocol. Others benefit from longer-term treatment. Your clinician will work with you to determine the right timeline and build a plan for maintaining your results after treatment.
This is one of the most common concerns — and a valid one. Studies show that patients who stop GLP-1 medications without a maintenance strategy often regain weight. That's exactly why we don't just prescribe and disappear. We build a long-term metabolic optimization plan that includes hormone balancing, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing monitoring so your results are sustainable.
We are a cash-pay practice, which means no insurance hassles and more time with your clinician. Injectable GLP-1 programs start at $200/month for semaglutide and $250/month for tirzepatide. We also offer oral medication options (phentermine, Contrave, and others) with a comprehensive initial visit at $100 and follow-up visits at $59, our clinical supervision fee, with medication billed by your pharmacy — medications are sent directly to your pharmacy. We provide a clear breakdown of all costs during your consultation — no hidden fees. Many patients use HSA/FSA accounts to cover treatment.
Not necessarily. We offer full telehealth services for patients in Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Utah, and Washington. Your initial labs can be done at a local lab near you. Follow-up consultations, dosage adjustments, and check-ins are all available via secure video visits. In-person visits are always available at our Joplin, MO clinic.

Clinical References

  1. Wilding JPH, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity (STEP 1). N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
  2. Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT-1). N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
  3. Aronne LJ, et al. Tirzepatide as Compared with Semaglutide for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT-5). N Engl J Med. 2025;393(1):26-36. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2416394
  4. Lincoff AM, et al. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes (SELECT). N Engl J Med. 2023;389(24):2221-2232. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2307563

Editorial Standards

This Page is Reviewed by a Clinician

Mathew Hammons, PA-C

Lead Clinician · Optimized Health · Joplin, MO

Mathew Hammons is a Physician Assistant with more than 15 years of clinical experience in obesity medicine, hormone optimization, and peptide therapy. He has overseen care for more than 5,000 patients at Optimized Health and is the practice's prescribing clinician. Every protocol, every adjustment, and every follow-up runs through him directly. He is licensed in Missouri with telehealth coverage in Kansas, Iowa, Utah, and Washington, and oversees all GLP-1, oral medication, and phentermine protocols at the practice.

Last reviewed: August 8, 2026 · View full profile

Not sure if it's right for you? That's exactly why we start with a conversation.

Lasting Weight Loss Starts With a Conversation

No pressure. No obligation. Just a real conversation about what's been holding you back — and whether our approach can help.

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Free informational calls available. HSA/FSA accepted. Telehealth in 5 states.