Body Analyzer Donation Supports Personalized Health Goals at Horizon Health

When it comes to measuring weight-loss progress, there is more to the story than a simple bathroom scale. 

Psychologist Marilyn Frey recently donated funds to the Horizon Health Foundation to purchase a body composition analyzer, providing capabilities that go well beyond those of a traditional scale. The technology gives patients a deeper understanding of what their weight is made of and offers a more informed way to track changes throughout their health and fitness journeys. 

“I’ve always believed in supporting our local hospital and investing in the health of our community,” Dr. Frey said. “I’m hopeful this technology will help patients better understand their health and make meaningful progress toward their wellness goals.”

Initially, the InBody 580 analyzer will be used at the Horizon Health Center for Weight Management by dietitians and family medicine providers, as well as in employee wellness programs.

“Body composition monitoring gives us a valuable tool for patients taking GLP-1 medications,” said Dr. Micah Thompson, family medicine physician. “It will help us track changes in muscle and fat, providing important information to support safe, personalized care.”

The analyzer uses a safe, low-level electrical current to measure body fat percentage, muscle mass distribution in the arms, legs and torso, body water balance, and cellular health—an indicator of how well the body’s cells are functioning.

The assessment takes less than a minute and can be repeated over time to track changes in body composition. It provides patients and their healthcare providers with a more comprehensive view of progress, which can be monitored conveniently through a smartphone app.

Horizon Health Wellness Coordinator Julee Dennis, RN, said body composition analysis is an important tool for helping individuals achieve their health and fitness goals, whether they are working to lose fat or monitoring muscle development over time.

“Weight alone is not a complete indicator of good health because it does not distinguish fat from muscle,” she said. “This analyzer divides a person’s weight into water, muscle, and fat.”

Dr. Frey is renowned throughout the community for her volunteer service and global contributions to the field of psychology. Through this donation, she also honored several individuals who have supported local healthcare, including family members Alfonso and Nancy Trimble-Frey, as well as Dr. R. H. McKnight and his wife, Bertha.