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Dr. Christine Degnon of Coastal Direct certified in obesity medicine

Only 20 in Delaware
September 11, 2019

Dr. Christine Degnon has been certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine as an ABOM diplomate, one of 20 in Delaware. 

ABOM diplomates are physicians who undergo rigorous training in obesity medicine and an extensive examination process to achieve this designation.

The board serves the public and the field of obesity medicine by maintaining standards for assessment and credentialing physicians. Certification as an ABOM diplomate signifies specialized knowledge in the practice of obesity medicine and distinguishes a physician as having achieved competency in obesity care. ABOM collaborates with the National Board of Medical Examiners to administer the annual credentialing exam.

Currently, there are more than 3,375 ABOM diplomates throughout the United States and Canada.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 40 percent of U.S. adults cope with obesity, which is associated with a higher risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke and other musculoskeletal and vascular problems. Obesity has been officially recognized as a disease by the American Medical Association since 2013. However, physicians often have little or no training in weight management and nutrition, and are unfamiliar with appropriate management and treatment guidelines.

“The growth of obesity medicine board certification mirrors the rise in interest among physicians seeking a more evidence-based approach to treating patients coping with obesity,” said Dana Brittan, ABOM executive director.


“The certification process provides physicians with tools, resources and knowledge to enhance their skills and help their community address the obesity epidemic, one patient at a time,” said Dr. Rekha Kumar, medical director for ABOM.

Degnon is also board certified in family medicine and recently moved into her newly renovated office on Savannah Road. Her practice model, direct primary care, bypasses insurance to simplify healthcare and offer patients a more personalized approach to health and wellness with a flat monthly fee. Extended office visits enable her to spend the time needed to address health and wellness not just with medication, but with discussions about goals and lifestyle choices. Her new facility is equipped with a working kitchen/classroom to aid in the care of her patients and their nutrition and dietary needs.

For more information, go to www.coastaldpc.com and www.abom.org.

 

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