Healthcare Network, the largest pediatric care provider in Collier County, has launched a new evidence-based, multi-disciplinary initiative to tackle the rise in obesity among local children and teens.  

Made possible by grants from the Naples Children and Education Foundation (NCEF), founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wellness Warriors is a proactive, comprehensive and culturally appropriate effort to reduce childhood obesity through nutritional, medical and behavioral health care, as well as family involvement alongside child-focused interventions.   

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, one in five U.S. children and adolescents are obese, which affects some groups more than others, including adolescents, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black children and children in families with lower incomes. For children, obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95^th percentile for age and sex.  

Healthcare Network partnered with the University of Florida Department of Endocrinology and University of Central Florida College of Medicine to identify the needs and the highest-risk communities, which include Immokalee, Golden Gate and East Naples. The team worked collaboratively to develop a protocol based on evidence-based guidelines.

“We looked at climbing obesity rates and identified 102 children in Collier County who qualified as obese and led them through a pilot program that included nutritional counseling, exercise and behavioral health support,” said Dr. Salvatore Anzalone, medical director of pediatrics and vice president of clinical business development at Healthcare Network. “Through the pilot program, we identified barriers, such as motivation, family history of obesity and chronic disease, transportation, time and cultural factors, such as diet. That led Healthcare Network to develop Wellness Warriors, which integrates nutritionists into pediatric primary care visits and addresses important factors to ensure children and families are set up for success.”

The pilot program demonstrated measurable success in reducing BMI among participating children. Overall, 55% of children who completed three or more registered dietitian (RD) visits saw a reduction in BMI, underscoring the value of ongoing support. Notably, among those with six or more RD visits, 100% achieved a decrease in BMI. This strong correlation between program engagement and improved outcomes validated the approach and informed the development of Wellness Warriors, designed to maximize sustained participation and holistic support for children and their families.

Once patients are identified, they are invited conditionally and must complete a motivational and behavioral health assessment before being accepted into the program. The program follows American Academy of Pediatric guidelines and begins with baseline measurements, including fitness and medical tests, routine visits with a physician and nutritionist, as well as screenings for eating disorders and other mental health needs. Diet, BMI and bloodwork are routinely monitored, and the program is adjusted as needed. Education is an integral part of the program, which engages parents as well.

“We recognize that cultural cuisine is a big part of the lifestyle of the families in the program, so we are addressing nutrition for not just the patient, but for the entire family,” said Anzalone. “While deeply rooted in heritage, many dishes are high in carbs and calories, so we can recommend tweaks to traditional recipes to make them healthier while maintaining the flavors and traditions.”

While the program is managed by Healthcare Network, it extends to private practices as well. The goal is to reach 400 children in Collier County over the course of the two-year program.  

To learn more about the program, visit HealthcareSWFL.org/Childrens-Care.

About Healthcare Network  

Since 1977, Healthcare Network has distinguished itself by providing primary health care to men, women and children of all ages, helping the disenfranchised, underinsured and uninsured of our communities, as well as those with insurance and resources who recognize the quality and comprehensiveness of care available. The organization has grown from two small trailers in Immokalee to a network of providers located throughout Collier County. Primary healthcare services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, senior care, dental care and pharmacy as well as integrated and traditional behavioral health for both adults and children. Additionally, the organization’s community health workers bring health and social services directly to underserved families. For more information, visit www.HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.