MOVE! Weight Loss Program
Overview
MOVE! is the VA's weight loss and healthy living program designed for veterans who may have struggled with weight management post-military service.
Pro Tip: The MOVE! program helps veterans lose weight without paying for expensive gym memberships or diet plans. You got fat eating DFACs and MREs—let the VA help you un-fat.
Core Program Ideas
- Encouraging healthy eating behavior
- Increasing physical activity
- Promoting even small weight losses
Benefits
Working with a MOVE! care team can help veterans: - Reduce health risks - Prevent or reverse certain diseases - Improve quality of life - Live longer
Eligibility Requirements
All veterans are eligible, including those with: - Less than honorable service records - Gaps in VA healthcare coverage
Important caveat: Full program access requires enrollment in VA health care.
Enrollment Process
For Those Already Enrolled in VA Healthcare
- Complete the online Questionnaire
- Print patient report or save generated code
- Schedule appointment with VA primary care physician
- Bring documentation to appointment
- Review MOVE! care options with PCP
For Veterans NOT Enrolled in VA Healthcare
- Access MOVE! workbook online
- Use MOVE! Coach mobile app
- Complete questionnaire if desired
MOVE! Care Options
Program participation methods include:
MOVE! Coach Mobile App - Self-directed weight management - Available on iOS (version 6.0+) and Android - Optional brief clinician check-ins available
Group Sessions - Clinician-led structured groups - Regular meetings following weight loss format - Video conferencing to remote facilities available
Telephone Lifestyle Coaching - One-on-one contact with weight management coach - Phone-based support
TeleMOVE! - Daily in-home messaging technology - Clinician contact as needed - Frequent reminders for goal tracking
Weight Loss Medications & Bariatric Surgery - Available for veterans who've tried MOVE! without adequate results - Considered for weight-related health issues
Note: Options vary by location
Weight Management Medications
The VA offers weight management medicine options, though best practice recommends completing lifestyle programs like MOVE! before pursuing medication-only approaches. The VA provides clinical recommendations for weight management pharmaceutical options.