FryeCare Medical Weight Loss Celebrates Relocation

New facility expands access to critical service to manage a healthier lifestyle

HICKORY, NC (May 7, 2025) – Frye Regional Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint facility, marked a significant milestone on Wednesday, May 7, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the relocation of FryeCare Medical Weight Loss. Now operating from a spacious new location at 1781 Tate Blvd. SE, Suite 204, Hickory, NC, the clinic remains dedicated to helping individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

The clinic plays a central role in advancing Frye Regional’s mission of making communities healthier® by providing evidence-based obesity treatment. Through a multi-disciplinary model—encompassing lifestyle counseling, behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery—the program delivers personalized care grounded in the latest clinical research. This approach addresses obesity’s complex medical, psychological and social dimensions, improving outcomes in metabolic health, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, cancer and psychiatric conditions.

Addressing a growing health concern with a commitment to healthier communities Obesity remains a pressing public health issue, with more 40% of U.S. adults affected according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. North Carolina’s adult obesity rate stood at 34% in 2023, with Catawba County at 29.9%. FryeCare Medical Weight Loss directly responds to this concern by providing individualized care plans that include nutritional counseling, physical activity support and behavioral change strategies.

“Today’s ribbon cutting represents more than just a new location—it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to improving health outcomes for the communities we serve,” said Philip Greene, MD, chief executive officer of Frye Regional Medical Center. “FryeCare Medical Weight Loss offers patients a trusted partner in their journey to better health. We empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make lasting lifestyle changes. Healthier outcomes go beyond treating illness; they require a proactive approaching that prioritizes preventive care and long-term wellness.”

The clinic is led by Medical Director Ailisa Smith, MD, who is board-certified in family, adolescent and obesity medicine. The care team includes Anita Gribble, PA-C, who has been with the program since its inception in July 2022. She holds a Certificate of Advanced Education from the Obesity Medicine Association and a Certificate in Obesity Management in Primary Care, jointly offered by the American Academy of Physician Associates, National Association for Continuing Education, and The Obesity Society. Gribble has been practicing as a physician assistant since 1990.

Joining the team in May 2024, Erin Brabandt, PA-C, also brings extensive experience. She holds a Certificate of Advanced Education from the Obesity Medicine Association and is currently pursuing a Certificate in Obesity Management in Primary Care. Brabandt has practiced as a physician assistant since 1999.

Since its launch in July 2022, FryeCare Medical Weight Loss has helped more than 1,000 new patients. By supporting individuals in managing their weight and adopting sustainable lifestyle changes, the program helps reduce the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression and joint problems.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact FryeCare Medical Weight Loss at 828-324-9865.

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