A Complete Guide to Vida’s Medical Weight Loss Program

Vida’s Medical Weight Loss (MWL) program is a science-backed, integrated treatment plan designed to address obesity effectively.Unlike standalone prescription services, Vida combines medical expertise with personalized behavior change coaching to help members achieve sustainable weight loss and long-term maintenance. Whether you are seeking a new prescription for Anti-Obesity Medications (AOMs) such as GLP-1s, or looking  to continue your current treatment, this guide outlines exactly how the program works and what is required to get started. Please note there is a mandatory Photo ID requirement for appointments with Vida Medical Providers (Physicians and Nurse Practitioners).

1. Verifying Your Next Steps

Because every employer and health plan has unique coverage rules, your specific path to treatment may vary. Before scheduling appointments, you must verify your organization's specific criteria.

How to Check Your Requirements:

1. Open the Vida App.

2. Navigate to the Featured Section located at the very top of your home screen  There we  will display your specific eligibility rules and the exact steps required to schedule your first session with your Vida Medical Provider.

3. You can also check the Todo list located right below the Featured section in the app

2. Getting "Clinical Ready": Pre-Consultation Requirements

To ensure patient safety, Vida maintains strict clinical standards. You must complete the following requirements before you can meet with a Medical Provider. Failure to provide this documentation may delay your treatment.

A. Mandatory Lab Results

You must submit results for the following four tests, completed within the last 12 months:

• A1C: Measures average blood sugar over the past 3 months to screen for diabetes or prediabetes.

   

• Lipids Panel: Evaluates cholesterol and triglyceride levels to assess cardiovascular health.

   

• TSH: Screens for thyroid dysfunction, which can significantly impact weight.

   

• CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel): Assesses liver and kidney function to ensure your body can safely process medication.

  Need Labs? If you do not have recent results, message your Vida care team in the app. They can generate a lab order for you to take to a local facility (such as Quest or Labcorp)

B. Required Forms

• Member Contact Form: You will find this in your in-app "To-do" list. It must be completed to ensure we have your up-to-date contact information.

• Medical History Survey: A brief intake form regarding your health history and weight loss goals.

C. Requirements for Existing Medication Users (check featured section to confirm requirements )

If you are already taking a GLP-1 (e.g., Wegovy, Zepbound) and are transitioning to Vida for ongoing care or coverage, you must upload a medical record or doctor’s note containing:

• Patient Name & Date of Birth.

• Medication Name & Dose.

• Start Date of the medication.

•  BMI (before you started the medication).

• Prescribing Physician's Name.

D. The Registered Dietitian (RD) Consult

Depending on your specific health plan,  or employer you may be required to complete an initial consultation with a Vida Registered Dietitian. This session is critical for establishing a nutritional foundation that supports medication efficacy and helps mitigate potential side effects.

3. How to Submit Your Documents

Do not email sensitive documents. Please use the secure upload feature within the app:

1. Tap the Settings Gear (⚙️) in the top right corner of the home screen.

2. Select Documentation (or "My Documents").

3. Tap Upload and attach your files (PDFs or clear photos are accepted).

4. The Integrated Approach: Medicine + Coaching

Vida operates on the clinical evidence that Anti-Obesity Medications (AOMs) work best when paired with lifestyle changes.

• Holistic Support: Whether you are prescribed a GLP-1 or not, your Vida Health Coach and Dietitian are essential partners. They help you manage eating habits, optimize nutrition to prevent muscle loss, and maintain energy levels.

   

• Side Effect Management: GLP-1s can cause nausea or digestive issues. Your Vida team will provide specific dietary strategies to minimize these side effects. You will also complete a weekly side-effects form to ensure your provider can monitor your safety remotely.

   

• Dosing Adjustments: Your provider will monitor your progress closely. If your weight loss stalls or you experience adverse effects, they may adjust your dose or help you safely taper off the medication.

   

5. Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get my medication?

Vida does not ship medication. We send prescriptions electronically to your preferred local retail pharmacy or mail-order service.

How much does it cost?

Vida considers your insurance's drug formulary to prescribe the most effective medication at the lowest cost to you. You are responsible for any co-pays or deductibles determined by your insurance plan.

What if I already have a doctor?

For some members, Vida acts only as the "gatekeeper" for insurance coverage (Prior Authorization). In this scenario, you will continue to see your regular doctor for the actual prescription, but you must remain active in the Vida coaching program to satisfy your insurance company's engagement requirements for coverage.

6. Safety & Emergency Protocol

Your safety is our priority. Vida providers guide treatment based on national clinical guidelines and FDA labeling.

• Emergencies: Vida does not address medical emergencies via telehealth. If you experience a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

   

• Mental Health: If you are having a mental health crisis, call or text the free 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

   

  Click here for additional FAQs