bariatrician
Pronunciation: bar-ee-AT-ri-shun
A medical specialist who focuses on the comprehensive treatment of obesity, including nonsurgical and surgical weight management approaches.
Full Definition
A bariatrician is a physician who specializes in the medical treatment of obesity and weight-related disorders. Bariatricians may come from various medical backgrounds including internal medicine, family medicine, or endocrinology, and typically receive additional training in obesity medicine. Their practice encompasses comprehensive weight management including dietary counseling, behavioral modification, pharmacotherapy, and coordination with bariatric surgical teams when appropriate. Bariatricians play a crucial role in the multidisciplinary approach to obesity treatment, providing both nonsurgical alternatives and preoperative/postoperative care for bariatric surgery patients. Board certification in obesity medicine is available through the American Board of Obesity Medicine.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from bariatric surgeon who performs operations.
In Context
- "The patient was referred to a bariatrician for medical weight management before considering surgical options." — referral letter
- "Our bariatrician provides ongoing nutritional support for postoperative bariatric patients." — clinic description