Treatment algorithm. This algorithm applies only to the
assessment of overweight and obesity and subsequent decisions
based on that assessment. It does not include any initial
overall assessment for cardiovascular risk factors or diseases
that are indicated. Box 1: A patient encounter is defined as any
interaction with a health care practitioner (generally a
physician, nurse practitioner, or physician's assistant) that
provides the opportunity to assess a patient's weight status and
provide advice, counseling, or treatment. Box 2: The
practitioner must seek to determine whether the patient has ever
been overweight. While a technical definition is provided, a
simple question such as "Have you ever been overweight?" will
accomplish the same goal. Questions directed toward weight
history, dietary habits, physical activities, and medications
may provide useful information. Box 3: For those who have not
been overweight, a 2-year interval is appropriate for the
reassessment of body mass index (BMI). While this time