FAQ
Questions, answered.
Weight loss
What is medical weight loss?
A weight-loss program run by a medical provider. At Shalva Health it combines a food plan, an exercise program and, when appropriate, prescription medication, with lab work before and during treatment.
How is it different from other weight-loss programs?
Your plan is built around your health history and lab results, and we monitor you and adjust the plan as necessary instead of handing you a one-size-fits-all diet.
Is it right for me?
The free discovery call is the place to find out. Some people can't take injectable medications, for example anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or MEN 2, and anyone who is pregnant.
What should I expect?
You start with a free discovery call, then an initial consult with lab work. After that we follow up with you regularly and adjust your food plan, exercise and any medication.
Which medications do you prescribe?
Injectable and oral weight-loss medications, when we decide they're safe and right for you. You choose together at your consult, based on your history and lab work.
Is the medication included in the price?
Yes. Your consult and first month (from $350) include your medication, and so does each month after that (from $350 a month). The price depends on which medication is right for you.
How long does treatment last?
Usually months to years. Obesity is a chronic condition, so the plan is built for the long term.
Is it safe?
Safety is Shalva Health's priority. Lab work before and during treatment and regular monitoring are part of every plan.
What side effects should I expect?
The most common are nausea, an upset stomach and constipation, usually mild and early on. We start with a low dose and raise it slowly to keep these down. Call us if they don't settle, and call 911 for severe stomach pain.
How soon will I see results?
Most people notice less appetite within the first few weeks. Weight loss builds gradually over months, and we adjust your plan along the way.
Can I do the whole program by video?
Yes. Your consult and follow-ups can all be by video, and your medication can be delivered to your home.
I'm already on a weight-loss medication from another provider. Can I switch to Shalva Health?
Yes. Bring your current prescription and recent lab work to your consult, and we'll review whether to continue it.
Can I cancel or pause my membership?
Yes. Let us know at least one week before your next billing date. You can stop and restart once a year. If you stop a second time in the same year, you won't be able to rejoin.
What happens when I stop the medication?
Appetite often comes back, and some people regain weight. That's why your plan also builds eating and exercise habits, and we help you plan how and when to stop.
Sick care
What ages do you see?
Every age, from newborns to grandparents.
How much is a sick visit?
$45, in the office or by video. That includes the exam and a rapid strep test. Overnight testing and lab work are submitted through your insurance.
Do you take insurance for sick visits?
Shalva Health doesn't bill insurance, but we can give you a superbill to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Lab work and overnight tests go through your insurance.
How soon can I be seen?
Usually the same day, and often right away. Book online or call 410-635-0866.
Do home visits cost more?
Yes. A home visit is $45 plus a travel charge, which depends on where you live. Call 410-635-0866 to check your address and the price.
When should I go to urgent care or the ER instead?
Go to urgent care or the ER for chest pain, trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, a deep wound or a head injury. For emergencies, call 911. If you're not sure, call us at 410-635-0866.
Infant ear molding
How old can my baby be?
Treatment needs to start before 6 weeks of age, while your baby's ear cartilage is still soft. The earlier, the better, so book a free evaluation as soon as you notice a difference.
How long does treatment take?
Usually 2 to 4 weeks. The mold stays on the whole time.
Does it hurt my baby?
No. Ear molding is painless and non-surgical.
How much does it cost?
The first evaluation is free. The procedure is $900, which covers fitting, follow-up visits and removal.
How many follow-up visits are there?
At least one, and more if your baby needs them. Every follow-up is included in the $900.
Does insurance cover ear molding?
No. Shalva Health doesn't accept insurance for ear molding.
Visits and billing
What is telehealth?
A live video visit with us from your phone or computer. Prescriptions can be sent electronically to your pharmacy.
When am I billed for weight loss?
Your initial consult and first month (from $350) are one charge, on the day of your consult. If you decide not to start medication, you pay $150 for the consult instead. After that, it's from $350 a month, medication included, charged every 30 days.
When am I billed for other visits?
Other visits are billed after they happen.
Does insurance cover weight loss?
Sometimes. Shalva Health can give you a superbill to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Can I use an HSA or FSA card?
Yes, HSA and FSA cards are accepted.
What if I miss an appointment?
A missed weight-loss visit without notice is $50. There is no fee for a missed sick visit.
What are your hours, and is there parking?
Appointments run from the morning until 10 pm, by appointment. The office has a parking lot.