Help for a 12 year old boy

I am looking for resources/suggestions for a 12 year old boy in central PA who is 450 lbs.  He is from a low income family and so Medicaid is his insurance.  I am interested in any and all treatment ideas/options as well as social services/payment options for those treatments.  Any help or resources anyone has would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

Hey I'm a 18 yr. old had gastric RNY on 3/27/08. An idea have him try the medication allie i lost 40-50lbs previous to my surgery. And also its helpful to eat things high in protein i've learned when i get my protien in daily my wieght drops. Try South Beach and Actons frozen dinners. Stop all bread and caffenine drinks. I know my surgeon Dr. Mattar he's through Clarian Baratric in Indianapolis, IN he takes Medicaid, also he takes kids low as 16 so far matters about thier matureity level. I'd research for other doctors closer to you, maybe they could help him get some wieght off.  I wish you luck. 317-275-6010 Nacey Dolley This is my Doctors' nurses number you can call and i'm sure she'll have some suggestions or even surgeons closer to you. ♥ Tiffany

I would advise against medications, especially as young as he is. If he were older, yes, medication could be an alternative. Alli is a complex medication and if he messes up on the diet, he could have big problems. Does he have any comorbidities (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, asthma, etc.)?

The local YMCA should have options for low income households that would be able to help him get more exercise. Talking to a nutritionist or a pediatrician is also important especially when it comes to his diet. There are also exercise options for not only him but also his family that would include him.

I also would advise against surgery because of his age. In fact, I doubt an MD would take him as a patient. I would stress guidance in exercise and nutrition to help him. Getting him and his family to adopt a healthy lifestyle will benefit him for the rest of his life.

Hey,

Im 18 about to turn 19 yrs old. I have an idea my surgeon Dr.Fielding is located in NYC, he is one of the lead lap band surgeons and he operates at NYU medical center. I know they are one of the few centers that are running FDA trials on teen lap banding and if he quilifys for the study its free. You might want to check that out. If you google Dr.George Fielding NYU program for surgical weight loss they mite be able to help. If not and you run into cornor let me know as I am currently writing a teen obesity book which is being co-authored with surgeons,ect.. at Columbia med center.... I might be able to raise the money to have the surgery paid for. Feel free to email me [email protected]

Good Luck,

Cortney 

I don't think that he would be eligible for wls at 12 years old, at least I don't THINK so.  I know that Medicaid often pays for inpatient treatment with restricted diet and lots of exercise.  At his age, his parents likely need to take some nutrition classes and need to learn about helping him physically get moving.  At 450 pounds, though, I would think inpatient treatment would be his only realy option considering his age.  I hope someone else has better information for you!

I have heard of cases where the child was taken away because of that type of wieght..kind of like a neglect in care. Any up date?