Franchise Business: Intensive Residential Therapy for Obesity

Background

A London Mental Health Trust has developed an alternative programme to surgery for the treatment of clinically obese patients that includes a significant psychological component. Research at Duke University Medical Centre showed that immersion style obesity treatment programmes can help people achieve medically significant weight loss. The new programme includes a residential aspect followed by remote therapy.

Problem

Bariatric surgery is both very invasive and expensive and often does not result in the desired patient outcome where mental health issues are prevalent.

Solution

The Intensive Residential Therapy Programme for Obesity addresses the psychological component associated with obesity which could prevent the need for bariatric surgery. Managed and developed by consultant psychiatrists who specialise in eating disorders, including obesity, the programme can be more effective and less invasive compared to bariatric surgery.

Market Potential

In the UK obesity rates and associated disorders (diabetes, cardiovascular, renal) are increasing at an alarming pace with health costs spiralling at a non-sustainable rate. Last year 24% of adults in the UK classified as obese (BMI 30kg/m2 or over) compared to 15% in 1993. NICE guidance suggests that 2-4% of obese people should be applicable (BMI >40) for bariatric surgery equating to 8,500-17,000 patients per year at a cost of £7000-£16,000 per patient.

Status

The management team and consultant psychologists are in place to set up the first residential centre.

Finance Required

£1 million is required to set up the first Residential Centre in the UK. The opportunity exists to franchise the business internationally.

Business Plan

Please contact David Chilvers, Chief Executive, NHS Innovations London Ltd.