I am Chioma Okafor-Mbah, a family medicine and obesity medicine physician and the owner of a concierge telehealth weight loss and metabolic health clinic: Chioma Okafor-Mbah Gomez, MD PLLC. Growing up in Nigeria as the child of two family physicians, my path to medicine was almost predestined. From an early age, I was immersed in the world of healthcare, watching my parents care for patients with unwavering dedication. Their passion for medicine inspired my own, leading me to pursue a career dedicated to helping others.

At the age of 16, I embarked on a remarkable journey by enrolling in medical school at Universidad Central del Este in the Dominican Republic. Despite not speaking Spanish initially, I embraced the challenge head-on, learning the language while excelling in my studies. This period was transformative, teaching me resilience and the importance of cultural competence in medicine. Graduating summa cum laude after five intense years, I carried forward the lessons of perseverance and adaptability.

Securing a family medicine residency in the United States was a significant milestone. The transition was filled with challenges, but my determination never wavered. I completed my family medicine residency at Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, and then moved to New York to work in underserved communities in the Bronx, where I encountered diverse health issues and honed my skills in providing comprehensive care to marginalized populations. These experiences deepened my commitment to making a tangible difference in patients’ lives. SInce then, I have worked in private practice and later moved on to be an attending physician at one of the largest urgent care groups in the NY tri-state area.

In 2022, inspired by the need to address chronic health conditions through weight management and the encouragement of my husband, I opened a concierge telehealth weight loss practice. This venture was driven by a desire to offer flexible, high-quality care that fits into patients' busy lives while allowing me to maintain a healthy work-life balance. My practice, serving patients across NY, NJ, PA, MD, FL, and CA, has grown significantly through referrals. We have seen remarkable results, from improving diabetes and cholesterol levels to enhancing fertility and managing PCOS. Our patients are not only healthier but also feel more confident and satisfied with their bodies.

During my career, I have achieved several notable milestones, particularly in the field of obesity medicine and metabolic health. One of my most rewarding experiences was helping a 17-year-old patient lose 100 pounds, thereby avoiding bariatric surgery and gaining newfound confidence. My approach combines addressing weight loss with managing chronic conditions like diabetes, demonstrating that effective weight management can lead to significant health improvements.

Looking to the future, I am excited about expanding our services to include perimenopause care and longevity. This decision was fueled by patient demand and my background in primary care. I have sought additional training to integrate the latest treatments into our practice, focusing on hormone and metabolic health as keys to longevity. We are developing a comprehensive longevity protocol and a six-month intensive coaching program that combines medication, supplements, and holistic care.