Who We Are

Founded in 2024, NC Obesity Society is a not-for-profit professional and civic membership organization, dedicated to promoting and expanding the practice of obesity medicine in North Carolina.

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Our Mission

Advancing the Science of Obesity Care

NCOS was established to unify healthcare providers, researchers, and public health advocates under a singular goal: to change the way North Carolina treats obesity. We move beyond outdated "calories in vs. calories out" models to embrace the complex neuroendocrine reality of the disease.

Evidence-Based
Upholding the latest clinical guidelines from OMA and TOS.
Policy-Driven
Fighting for equitable insurance coverage for all NC citizens.

Executive Board

Firas Ghomraoui, MD
PRESIDENT
Anne Kome, PHARMD, CPP
VICE PRESIDENT
Tiffany Lowe Clayton, DO
SECRETARY
Cressent Pressly, MD
TREASURER
Jordan Smith
Executive Administrator

Board of Directors

Emily Weaver, NP
PRESIDENT
Jessica Bartfield, MD
board member
Gail Cohen, MD
board member
Stephanie Ortiz Page, DO
board member
John Parker, MD
board member
Mark Schwartz, MD
board member
Andrea D. Coviello, MD, FACE, MMCi, MSc
board member
Real Impact

The Mission Behind Our Momentum

Our organization formed to meet a critical turning point in public health as obesity rates rise and costs strain North Carolina. This is the inspiration for our mission: to be a trusted resource helping providers, advocates, and patients navigate the path toward achieving a healthier weight.

73.6%
National Overweight/Obesity Rate
U.S. Adults (CDC)
67%
NC Adults Overweight/Obese
Statewide Average
50%
2030 Obesity Projections
Predicted NC Rate
34%
Childhood Obesity Rate
North Carolina (Kids Count)
91%
Underserved NC Counties
Economically Distressed

NCOS Strategic Committees

Drive progress. Shape policy. Lead growth. Committee involvement is an exclusive benefit for NCOS members—join us to start making an impact.

Education and Outreach

Empowering the next generation of obesity medicine specialists through accredited CME programs, residency outreach, and statewide clinical symposia.

Meet Dr. Kristina Hines

Dr. Kristina Hines is a board-certified family physician and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She practices at UNC Health Family Medicine at Grays Creek, providing comprehensive primary care and weight management services. Passionate about compassionate, evidence-based obesity care, Dr. Hines also serves as Co-Chair of the NCOS Education and Outreach Committee, working to expand patient access and education. Outside of medicine, she enjoys exercising, traveling, and spending time with her husband and kids.

Meet Dr. Shaun Hines

Dr. Shaun Hines is a board-certified family physician with certifications in obesity and lifestyle medicine. He has practiced with Cape Fear Valley Health System since 2018, serving patients in Bladen County.His passion for obesity care grew through rural practice, where he recognized the need to treat root causes; not just symptoms. He is a strong advocate for patient-centered, lifestyle-focused care and improved access across North Carolina through his work with NCOS.

Advocacy and Policy Reform

Engaging with state legislators and healthcare payers to expand access to comprehensive obesity care, including pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions.

Meet Angela Thatcher

Angela Thatcher, PA-C is a board-certified physician assistant and obesity medicine specialist, and the owner of Lifelong Health & Wellness in Wake Forest, NC. An NC native, she trained at UNC–Chapel Hill and East Carolina University and holds the Obesity Medicine Association’s Certificate of Advanced Education.With a background in social work, Angela is a dedicated patient advocate focused on expanding access to compassionate, educated care. She is active in obesity advocacy at both the state and national levels, serving on the OMA Advocacy Committee and as Co-Chair of the NCOS Advocacy Committee.

Membership and Public Relations

Building a robust network of obesity medicine professionals while managing the society’s presence as a trusted medical authority in North Carolina.

Meet Jonathan Ray

Jonathan Ray, PA-C is an advocate for transforming obesity care and serves as Chair of the NCOS Membership and Public Relations Committee. He works in Atrium Health Virtual Care Weight Management, with experience in primary care and obesity medicine practice development.Jonathan is passionate about expanding access to person-centered, comprehensive weight management. Outside of work, he lives in south Charlotte with his family and enjoys travel, fitness, and making others laugh.

We prioritize health gain over weight loss.
Our core philosophy
Leader Spotlight

Spotlight on Our Leaders

Dr. Stephanie O. Page

Board Member

Dr. Page is a regular contributor to Glow Up and Speak Out, discussing metabolic wellness and sustainable health paradigms for women of all sizes.

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Dr. Tiffany Lowe Clayton

Board of Directors

Known as "Dr. TLC," she is a prominent voice in body image advocacy and medical weight management, appearing on national health segments.

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National Clinical Affiliation

Official Local Affiliate of the OMA

NCOS members receive exclusive benefits through the Obesity Medicine Association.

Use Code: MEMBERSHIP_NCOS
Get 10% off new or renewing memberships. (Standard exclusions apply to student and retired tiers).
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