Lifestyle First: Dr. Maram Khalifa on Building GLP-1 Programs That Last
GLP-1 medications have dominated headlines this year, but many conversations overlook one key factor: the patient experience.
On Goodpath’s recent webinar, The GLP-1 Patient Experience, endocrinologist Dr. Maram Khalifa discussed what patients really go through before, during, and after starting GLP-1 therapy—and what employers can do to support them.
1. Awareness is skyrocketing, and so are expectations
Dr. Khalifa has seen a rapid shift in awareness of GLP-1 medications. Patients now come to their appointments already asking about them.
That enthusiasm is encouraging, but it also means patients arrive with high expectations, and sometimes, misinformation. Setting realistic goals and clarifying what these medications can and can’t do is critical to maintaining trust and adherence.
2. Most patients have struggled for years before turning to medication
By the time patients consider a GLP-1, most have been working to manage their weight for years.
Dr. Khalifa emphasized that treatment always starts with the fundamentals—nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management—before medication is added. GLP-1s are not a first-line treatment but part of a continuum of care for those who’ve exhausted lifestyle-only options.
3. Side effects are common, but manageable
The majority of patients experience some nausea or GI discomfort at first.
Dr. Khalifa noted that these side effects are typically temporary and often tied to how the medication works. With proper education, a gradual dosing schedule, and dietary adjustments, most patients adapt successfully and remain on treatment.
4. Support drives persistence
The biggest differentiator between patients who stay on therapy and those who stop early is the level of support they receive. Regular follow-ups, reassurance, and proactive communication help patients manage side effects and maintain motivation.
5. Success comes from comprehensive support
Dr. Khalifa’s “magic wand” wish for every patient? Close, consistent support that integrates medical and behavioral care. Because many patients have faced weight challenges for much of their lives, they need more than a prescription. They need coordinated emotional, psychological, and nutritional guidance to address the deeper factors driving their weight challenges.
This comprehensive approach mirrors Goodpath’s model: combining medical oversight, behavioral coaching, and ongoing education to help members succeed on or off medication.
6. Results go beyond the scale
Dr. Khalifa’s patients often report improvements across multiple health domains: better blood sugar control, reduced cholesterol, improved sleep, decreased joint pain, and higher energy levels. Many also experience better confidence and self-esteem.
She described one patient who had started GLP-1 therapy for obesity. Their follow-ups were all virtual, and when the patient returned in person a year later, Dr. Khalifa barely recognized her. The physical change was striking, but what stood out even more was her confidence. The patient, who once avoided eye contact, now spoke openly and with self-assurance.
For Dr. Khalifa, it reinforced that with the right support, the benefits of GLP-1s reach far beyond weight loss and can help restore a person’s sense of self.
7. What employers can do now
Because not all employers can or will cover GLP-1s for weight management, Dr. Khalifa urged them to invest in comprehensive wellness programs that provide lifestyle guidance, behavioral health support, and education on healthy habits.
Dr. Khalifa recommends investing in comprehensive wellness programs that include:
- Nutrition and exercise support
- Stress and sleep management
- Behavioral health tools
- Education around weight, side effects, and realistic expectations
The key is creating an environment that empowers sustainable weight care, whether or not medication is part of the plan.
The Takeaway
GLP-1s are powerful tools, but they aren’t a standalone solution. Sustainable success depends on lifestyle change, patient education, and continuous support.
Goodpath’s GLP-1 program delivers that foundation, offering lifestyle-first support, access to medications when appropriate, and continuous clinical oversight. Whether or not employers cover GLP-1s, Goodpath ensures employees have the guidance and care they need for sustainable results.
Watch the full webinar or download Goodpath’s GLP-1 E-book to explore how integrated support creates lasting outcomes for your employees.
Written by Our Goodpath Expert: Anne Lowell, NBC-HWC, RYT-500, ACSM-EP.