Medically Managed Weight Loss Program
For individuals seeking professional assistance with weight loss, the Merit Health Weight Loss Clinic offers a wide array of services.
The medically-managed weight loss team includes a nurse practitioner, dietitians and other healthcare professionals that are experienced in working with patients in need of weight management.
Services include:
- Medical assessments and monitoring
- Nutritional guidance and meal planning/replacements
- Educational programs
- Behavior modification
Jessica Fordham, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC
Jessica Fordham, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, holds a degree in biology pre-medicine, which laid the foundation for her understanding of human anatomy and physiology. As a doctorial prepared dual-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, specializing in both primary care and obesity medicine, Jessica has served as a primary care provider in rural health, bariatric surgery department manager and program coordinator. She has well-rounded knowledge in guiding both surgical and non-surgical weight management patients. Influenced by the desire to make a meaningful difference, she made a conscious decision to focus on serving her community by establishing trust with each patient and engaging in open, relatable conversations about the underlying factors contributing to common chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Jessica's ultimate goal is to promote and implement holistic approaches to weight loss, encompassing nutritional counseling, exercise physiology, behavioral modification, genetic analysis, environmental changes and pharmacological management to support individuals on their journey towards improved health and well-being.
Medical Education:
- Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
- Doctor of Nursing Practice, Mississippi University for Women, Columbus, MS
- Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner), Mississippi University for Women, Columbus, MS
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR