Title: Boss a Pilot Study for the Evaluation of Treatment for Severe Obesity for BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York
(referred as HIP study)

Principal Investigator: Michael Noe, MD, MPH

Funding Agency: BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York

Period: 09/01/05 - 08/31/09

Abstract: Health Improvement Project (HIP) is a clinical trial designed to provide an evaluation of intensive medical treatment for participants with severe obesity who would otherwise qualify as candidates for obesity surgery and who are covered by BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS) of Western New York.

We will compare four management approaches:

1) intensive diet, behavioral therapy and medication

2) intensive diet and behavioral treatment

3) diet, behavioral therapy and medication

4) diet and behavioral therapy

Participants are enrolled for a three-year treatment. They will be evaluated at specified time points and medical treatments will be given at the Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Health Professions at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York.