[November 30, 2023] Huntington, West Virginia — Valley Health is excited to introduce a groundbreaking initiative to promote holistic wellness in children. The Pediatric Fitness Program is designed to address the challenges faced by children in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This comprehensive program integrates medical, behavioral health, nutrition, and physical education/fitness components to foster overall well-being.
Dr. Daniel Whitmore, DO, FAAP, Chief of the Pediatric Section, expresses enthusiasm for this innovative approach to support children in our community. “We recognize that well-being is a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors. Our program acknowledges the importance of socioecological, environmental, and genetic factors in pursuing a healthy lifestyle. By intervening early, we aim to mitigate potential comorbid conditions, such as dyslipidemia, Type 2 diabetes, Fatty liver disease, hypertension, and depression,” says Dr. Whitmore. “I am eager to contribute to a positive change in the lives of our young community members.”
To participate in Valley Health’s Pediatric Fitness Program, children aged 6-12 can be referred if their BMI places them in the 95th percentile or higher. The program encompasses medical checkups every three months, behavioral health visits every two weeks, nutrition guidance/appointments every 30 to 60 days, and engaging physical fitness workouts through the local YMCA twice a week for six weeks.
“The latest research underscores the significance of a family-based, face-to-face, multicomponent treatment lasting 26 hours or more throughout 3 to 12 months for successful outcomes. This is a collaborative commitment from families with the potential for transformative, health-enhancing results,” highlights Dr. Whitmore.
# # #
Valley Health Systems, Inc. is a leader in primary care since 1975 and operates more than 40 healthcare centers and public health programs in southwestern West Virginia and southern Ohio. With more than 170 providers and 800 staff members, Valley Health is dedicated to accessible, quality healthcare for all members of our communities. Valley Health Systems, Inc. delivers primary care services to more than 100,000 patients in our service area each year.
