smallstonefan
I was going in anyway for a regular visit, but the nurse says he wants my body mass. No, they don't do it the old fashioned way - you stand on a device and hold handles. A small electrical charge runs through the handles and they measure the resistance or something or other to come up with a number. Very scientific, and probably easier to charge for. :) Visit is set for the 20th of June. Goal is to be down 12 pounds when I walk in there.
So not BMI then. A indirect estimate of lean body mass based on electrical characteristics of adipose vs muscle and visceral tissue. bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) or total body electrical conductivity (TOBEC). A research tool, or, as you say, a way to separate patients from money. It provides less than essential information if the point is that you are getting fat. Looking in a mirror will tell most people whether they are suffering from overeating or muscular hypertrophy from body building. Check with your health insurer to see if they will cover it.