Our mission is to elevate and empower those affected by obesity through education, advocacy and support. About the OAC During a meeting of legislators, a congress-person asked the question – “Who represents patients who are affected by obesity?” It was then that a legislator pointed out a serious need – a group whose only focus is on those affected by obesity. With this, the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) was born with the goal of building a national coalition of those who are living with and/or affected by obesity. The OAC is a non profit education and advocacy organization dedicated to serving the individuals most affected by obesity – patients. It is not only the OAC’s goal to represent patients, but also to provide balanced and comprehensive obesity educational materials and encourage and teach active advocacy participation. Education Education is one of the key components in the fight against obesity. The OAC produces a variety of educational resources. Topics discussed in the OAC’s educational resources range from the basics of obesity and morbid obesity to obesity treatments, and much more! In addition, the OAC’s resources focus on advocacy issues, such as working with your insurance provider and dealing with discrimination issues. The OAC also recognizes that family members of obese individuals play a significant role in the care of their loved ones. Through education and support, the OAC is an effective resource and support system for all affected by obesity. For more information on educational resources available, visit www.obesityaction.org. Advocacy The OAC is the patient voice in the obesity community. Everyday, advocacy plays a role in the lives of those affected by obesity. Maybe you have had a difficult time working with your insurance provider to get coverage for obesity management services, or you may have also faced some form of discrimination because of your weight. In any case, the OAC encourages you to get involved and make a difference not only in your life, but in the lives of others. There are many issues that individuals affected by obesity need to be educated about that impact their day-to-day lives. The OAC Web site offers visitors many options to start advocating.
Advocacy in action was responsible for the 2006 Medicare National Coverage Decision (NCD) ruling, allowing those Medicare eligible to access weight-loss surgery. The OAC brought patients together to write letters and contact the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which was instrumental in CMS’ expansion of coverage for weight-loss surgery. Getting Involved From dealing with insurance providers to working to alleviate discrimination against obese individuals, the OAC encourages you to get actively involved.
OAC Resources
Become a Member Membership in the OAC is important in helping patients educate themselves about obesity and advocate for access to treatment. Membership is on an annual basis and is accompanied with several valuable benefits. As a member you can look forward to receiving:
Whether a patient, family member, friend, professional or organization, the greater our membership, the stronger our voice! |
