Alberta Obesity Centre

A New Chapter in Obesity Care for Alberta

The Alberta Obesity Centre (AOC) was founded in response to a critical gap in care for Albertans living with obesity.

Treating the Whole You

For too long, patients were told to “just eat less and move more” — despite the fact that obesity is recognised by bodies such as the Canadian Medical Association and the World Health Organization as a chronic, relapsing disease. AOC’s founders, a group of physicians, dietitians and behavioural health experts, saw the need for long-term, medically supervised, and psychologically integrated care in Alberta.

From its start, AOC was built on a clear vision: to treat obesity with the seriousness and respect it deserves. Our founders believed that people living with obesity deserve nothing less than a healthcare model designed around science, dignity, and empathy. They created a multidisciplinary clinic that brings physicians and LPNs, registered dietitians, mental-health professionals and behavioural specialists together — treating the whole person, not just their weight.

Our Mission and Vision

Our mission is to deliver compassionate, virtual, evidence-based obesity care that empowers individuals to build sustainable health and well-being. Guided by medical expertise, education, and ongoing support, we provide personalized, dignified treatment that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of obesity with respect and deep understanding. Our vision is to transform how obesity is understood and treated in the digital space — leading a future where every person can access effective, stigma-free care, live a fulfilling, healthy life, and feel supported without judgment or stigma.

Core values that guide our care — built on compassion, respect, science, and the power of connection

Core values that guide our care — built on compassion, respect, science, and the power of connection

1

Compassion – We don’t just hear, we truly listen.

We take the time to understand every person’s story, challenges, and goals. Our care begins from a place of empathy, patience, and warmth — with support delivered gently, professionally, and always without judgment. We believe that feeling understood is where real change begins.

2

Respect – Every individual deserves care that protects their dignity.

We create a welcoming, inclusive, safe environment where choices are honoured and boundaries are respected. We understand that every path is personal, and healing is most successful when people feel seen, respected, and supported as they are — without pressure, shame, or bias.

3

Empowerment – Knowledge and guidance turn intention into action.

We equip individuals with clear education, practical tools, and ongoing coaching so they feel confident taking control of their health. We support autonomy, encourage self-belief, and stay by their side with consistent motivation — because empowered people achieve lasting progress.

4

Community – Human connection is part of the treatment, not an extra.

We nurture a caring community that uplifts, motivates, and protects its members. We believe that shared experiences heal on a deeper level, reduce isolation, and build resilience. No one should go through their journey alone — so we build spaces where support feels like belonging.

5

Integrity – Trust is built through truth, science, and responsibility.

We operate with transparency, honesty, accountability, and evidence-based digital care. We don’t promise shortcuts or perfection — we offer real medical expertise, responsible guidance, and measurable progress. Our care remains ethical and human-centered at every step.

6

Hope – Progress matters more than pace, and every step deserves recognition.

We celebrate improvements big and small. Whether it’s choosing a healthier meal, booking a consult, or simply showing up — every step forward is meaningful. We inspire hope because hope fuels consistency, and consistency transforms lives.

A Collaborative Approach to Patient Care

At AOC, you won’t find a one-size-fits-all diet plan or quick-fix promise. Our multidisciplinary approach means every person is fully supported, never judged, and receives the support they need to succeed in every facet of their life.

The AOC Difference Means:

  • We deliver whole-person, not weight-only care. Wherever you are in your health journey, we help you focus on mobility, energy, confidence and quality of life, not just the scale.
  • We maintain a compassion-led, stigma-free environment. From the moment you connect with us, you’re treated with dignity, not blame.
  • We take an integrated, multidisciplinary approach. Physicians, dietitians, psychologists, LPNs and other specialists collaborate so your medical, nutrition and emotional care all align.
  • We centre education and empowerment. Our team doesn’t simply prescribe. We teach you how obesity works, why certain treatments matter, and how to make real-world changes that last.
  • We combine science shaped by empathy. Every recommendation is rooted in credible evidence; every interaction is grounded in warmth, respect and shared purpose.

Our Community Impact

Since our founding, AOC has partnered with healthcare providers, community organisations and surgical programmes across Alberta to expand access and education in obesity care. We also operate the Alberta Obesity Society, which hosts an annual conference in Calgary bringing together surgeons, nurses, mental health and sleep-care specialists to discuss cutting-edge treatments, comorbid conditions and the future of obesity medicine. When you choose AOC, you’re choosing care that’s built for real people. Our mission is to make proven care accessible, inclusive, and stigma-free. Health improves when patients feel supported. We’re here for every step — small or big.