FAQ
Everything you need to know about medical weight loss at PEAK Wellness — from your first appointment to insurance coverage, medications, and what makes our approach different.
Your first steps
No. Most patients do not need a referral. You can call us directly or request an appointment online. The only exception is TRICARE Prime active-duty service members, who do need a referral from their primary care manager (PCM). TRICARE Select, retirees, and dependents do not need one.
Your first visit includes an EKG, lab review, medical evaluation, health history review, body composition assessment, and treatment planning. Labs from the last 6 months are accepted; otherwise labs are required before GLP-1 prescribing. Your provider will recommend a medication based on your health profile, insurance coverage, and goals. You will also meet with our registered dietitian — dietitian visits are required monthly for the first three months. We verify your insurance benefits before your visit so there are no surprises. Read more about what to expect at your first appointment.
Call our scheduling line at (757) 312-9444 or complete our online intake form. We verify your insurance before your first visit so you know your coverage upfront.
Yes. PEAK Wellness only treats adult patients ages 18 and older. Your provider will confirm eligibility during your initial consultation.
PEAK Wellness is primarily an in-person practice in Chesapeake, VA. We believe in-person care leads to better outcomes through physical exams, real provider relationships, and hands-on monitoring. While all new patients must come in person for their first visit, follow-up visits can be conducted via telehealth if you prefer. Learn more about telehealth vs. in-person weight loss care.
Coverage, billing, and cost questions
Coverage varies by plan. Many commercial insurance plans cover GLP-1 medications for weight management, especially if you have documented weight-related conditions. PEAK Wellness verifies your benefits before your first visit and handles prior authorizations for you. Check your eligibility for free or visit our insurance coverage page for details by carrier.
We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid, including Medicaid managed care plans like Anthem Healthkeepers Plus. If you have questions about your specific coverage, please call us at (757) 312-9444.
Self-pay rates are $199 for the initial provider visit, $135 for follow-ups, and $75 for dietitian visits. Medication costs are separate and set by manufacturers, dispensed through your pharmacy. Visit our program cost page for full details.
PEAK Wellness handles prior authorizations and appeals on your behalf. If a medication is denied, we explore alternative covered medications, appeal the decision, and connect you with manufacturer savings programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Read more about what to do if your prior authorization is denied.
Yes. TRICARE Select members, retirees, and dependents can be seen without a referral. TRICARE Prime active-duty service members do need a referral from their primary care manager (PCM) before scheduling. Note: TRICARE for Life covers office visits but does not cover weight loss medications. Learn more about TRICARE coverage for weight loss medications.
How treatment works at PEAK Wellness
Some of our most commonly prescribed FDA-approved weight loss medications include Wegovy (semaglutide), Zepbound (tirzepatide), Saxenda (liraglutide), Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion), phentermine, and orlistat. This is not an exhaustive list — your provider will recommend the best option based on your health profile and goals. We do not prescribe compounded GLP-1 medications under any circumstances. View all treatment options.
Your provider evaluates your health history, BMI, existing conditions, insurance coverage, and personal goals to recommend the best medication for you. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why an in-person evaluation matters. Read our guide on how to choose the right weight loss medication.
Results vary by medication and individual. GLP-1 medications typically produce noticeable results within the first month, with meaningful weight loss by 3 to 6 months on the full maintenance dose. Your provider and dietitian work together to optimize your progress. Learn more about setting realistic weight loss goals.
The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal: nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. These are typically mild and improve as your body adjusts, especially with gradual dose escalation. Your provider monitors you closely and adjusts your plan as needed. Read our complete guide to GLP-1 side effects or learn about managing nausea.
No, under any circumstances. PEAK Wellness prescribes only brand-name, FDA-approved medications from licensed manufacturers with verified supply chains. The FDA has raised serious concerns about compounded semaglutide products, including dosing inconsistencies and sterility issues. Read more about why we don't prescribe compounded GLP-1s.
About our practice
PEAK Wellness is located in Chesapeake, Virginia, serving all of Hampton Roads including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Suffolk, Portsmouth, and Newport News. Visit our contact page for directions and office hours.
PEAK Wellness is intentionally small to maintain continuity of care. You will see the same providers who know your history, and your registered dietitian works alongside your clinical team to support your progress over time. Meet our providers.
PEAK Wellness provides in-person medical exams, real provider relationships, built-in dietitian support, insurance-first pricing, and only FDA-approved medications. Telehealth programs often rely on brief video calls, limited follow-up, and may prescribe compounded or off-label medications without thorough evaluation. Read our full telehealth vs. in-person comparison or learn more about our approach.
Ready to start your weight loss journey?
Evidence-based weight loss, insurance-first pricing, and a care team that knows your name. No referral needed for most patients.
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