Article Category: Highlights
6 Weight Loss Questions Answered by Our Experts
Published on September 26, 2025
Last updated 01:19 PM September 26, 2025
People who want to lose weight have more options than ever before. However, deciding which one to pursue can be a challenge. Should you go for lifestyle changes alone? Consider weight loss surgery? Or look into injectable weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy?
We asked two Wellstar physicians to weigh in on this popular topic—and their answers might surprise you.
Dr. Lisa Hilton
is director of minimally invasive and
bariatric surgery
at Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center and director of the Center of Obesity and Metabolism at Augusta University.
Dr. Mitzi Rubin
is a family medicine physician and director of the
Wellstar Center for Best Health.
Here’s what these two experts have to say about obesity, treatment options and the importance of a comprehensive approach to weight loss.
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Highlights
Find Specialized Pelvic Health Care at Wellstar
Pelvic health conditions such as bladder leakage, pelvic pressure and recurrent urinary tract infections affect many women, particularly after childbirth or during midlife. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, nearly one in three women will experience a pelvic floor disorder in her lifetime. Despite how common these conditions are, many women delay seeking care—often living with symptoms that can significantly impact daily activities, sleep and overall wellbeing.
Urogynecology is a specialized field focused on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor conditions. Care begins with a comprehensive evaluation, followed by a personalized treatment plan based on each patient’s symptoms and goals. Many women benefit from conservative therapies such as pelvic floor physical therapy, lifestyle changes and medication. When needed, minimally invasive procedures are available to help reduce recovery time and support a quicker return to normal activities.
“Many women assume these symptoms are something they have to live with, but that is not the case,” said Wellstar Urogynecologist Dr. Sarah Huber. “By expanding access to urogynecology services, we are helping women get the care they need sooner, in a setting that is convenient and connected to their overall health.”
Wellstar brings together OB/GYN clinicians, urogynecology specialists, primary care physicians and specialized pelvic floor physical therapists to deliver coordinated care. This team-based model helps ensure a more seamless experience for patients, from initial evaluation through treatment and follow-up.With access to both routine and specialized care in one system, women can more easily address sensitive health concerns and take steps to improve their quality of life.
With locations in Augusta, Acworth, Hiram, Marietta, East Cobb and Smyrna, specialized pelvic health care is right in your community.
Highlights
A Healthy Handoff: Transitioning Teens to Adult Primary Care
For many families, care teams are a consistent part of a child’s life—supporting them from early childhood through adolescence. But as teens step into adulthood, one important transition can be easy to miss: moving from a pediatrician to an adult primary care provider.
This “handoff” is more than a change in doctors. It’s a key step in helping teens take ownership of their health and build habits that last a lifetime.
Keep reading
Timing the transition
“The transition usually happens between ages 17 and 19,” said Dr. Nicole Carter, a Wellstar Children’s of Georgia pediatrician. “The decision is primarily influenced by the teen and their family. Some young adults choose to move to an adult primary care provider sooner because they feel uncomfortable being in a setting with younger children.” As one of Georgia’s largest and most integrated health systems, Wellstar offers an expansive network of primary care providers across the state—making it easier for families to find a convenient location and continue care as their needs change. Why does this transition matter? For young adults navigating a new stage of life, healthcare can quickly fall down the priority list—especially when they feel healthy. Staying connected to care is essential. “It's important to continue to emphasize preventive healthcare and yearly well checks,” Dr. Carter said. “Young adults also need a primary care physician they can turn to with questions about their mental and physical health.”Gaining independence
One of the biggest adjustments during this handoff is who takes the lead. “In adult care, the physician speaks directly to their patient. A parent can still be present or involved, but the young adult becomes the primary decision-maker,” Dr. Carter said. That shift doesn’t happen overnight. Preparing early helps teens feel more confident managing their health, including having time alone with their provider to ask questions and speak openly. Families can support their teen’s independence by creating space for honest conversations at home too. “Important discussions include topics like sexuality and vaccines. It’s essential that teens and young adults are aware of their options,” said Dr. Carter. As teens begin to play a more active role, parents and caregivers naturally step back. “Caregivers should start allowing teens to answer questions asked by their provider and take the lead in any discussions, only filling in information when needed,” Dr. Carter said.Avoiding gaps in care
Without a clear plan, it’s easy for care to fall through the cracks during this transition, especially around milestones like graduation. “Before transitioning care, make sure any medications are refilled for three to six months and schedule a new patient appointment with an adult provider as soon as possible,” Dr. Carter said. Establishing care early helps ensure there’s no disruption and gives teens a provider they can rely on as their needs evolve.Building habits for life
The move to adult primary care is also a chance to reinforce habits that support long-term health. With guidance from care teams and support from parents and caregivers, teens can stay on top of annual checkups, ask questions and take an active role in their care. Families can also help by building everyday skills, from understanding medical history to managing prescriptions. Staying within a connected system like Wellstar can help simplify that process—making it easier to schedule appointments, access records and keep care on track as young adults take on more responsibility. These early habits make a lasting difference. Together, we can help young adults move into their next phase with confidence and a stronger sense of ownership over their health. Learn more about transitioning to adult primary care or find a provider near you..jpg?rev=3b389aca5e1e4457a51fd0d297b13c10 "Wellstar Opens New Locations in Powder Springs")
Highlights
Wellstar Opens New Locations in Powder Springs
To serve our community’s growing healthcare needs, Wellstar has opened new urgent care and primary care locations in Powder Springs.
Urgent Care
If you’re dealing with a minor injury or illness or need care after your physician’s regular office hours, going to urgent care is often the right choice. Wellstar Urgent Care centers provide quick, convenient care for non-emergency medical conditions such as coughs, colds, sprains, broken bones and minor bites, burns and cuts. Visit our new location at:
Powder Springs
1064 Richard D. Sailors Parkway
Primary Care
Primary care is ongoing, comprehensive care and preventative medicine that helps you live a full, healthy life. Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, treatment for acute illnesses like flu and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes. Wellstar Primary Care treats patients 10 and older. Visit our new location at:
Powder Springs
1064 Richard D. Sailors Parkway
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