Has patient sought weight loss on his/her own initiative?	Before beginning treatment, professionals must determine if patient recognizes the need and benefits of weight loss and wants to lose weight.
What events have led patient to seek weight loss now?	Weight loss motivation and goals are evident by responses to this question.
What is patient's stress level?	Patients who report higher-than-usual stress levels may be unable to focus on weight management. To increase the chances of weight-loss success, stress management may need to be initiated.
Does patient have an eating disorder?	Approximately 20% to 30% of obese patients who seek weight reduction (at university clinics) indulge in binge eating.
	Binge eaters are typically distressed by their chaotic eating patterns; the greater the person's distress or depression, the more likely the need for other forms of counseling (psychologic or nutritional).
Does patient understand the treatment requirements and believe that they can be met?	Health care professional and patient should select a course of treatment requirements together.
	Treatment activities should include those that are a high priority for the patient and those that the patient believes can be performed successfully.
How much weight does the patient expect to lose?	Professionals must assist patients in understanding that slow, modest weight loss can improve health.
What other benefits does the patient anticipate?	In addition to weight loss, progress should be assessed by achievement of overall health improvement goals.