Training Residents in Obesity Counseling: Incorporating Principles of Motivational Interviewing to Enhance Patient Centeredness

Amy M Burton, April A Agne, Stephanie M Lehr, Nichola J Davis, Lisa L Willett, Andrea L Cherrington
2011 Journal of Graduate Medical Education  
Obesity places an increased burden on America's health care system, and primary care physicians are challenged with preventing and managing this epidemic. Currently, 32% of adults in the United States and 16% of children and adolescents are obese, defined by a body mass index of 30 or greater in adults and a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile for age in children and adolescents. 1,2 While obesity rates have increased during the past few decades, so too have the rates of related
more » ... nic diseases. Despite this increase, there appears to be a decrease in physician diagnosis of obesity and in weight-loss recommendations. 3 Physicians cite multiple barriers to obesity counseling, including a lack of training in behavior counseling, low confidence, and patient noncompliance. 4 In 1 study, only 30% of primary care physicians reported being trained well Abstract Background The US Preventive Services Task Force and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that physicians screen patients for obesity and practice counseling interventions to achieve modest (4%-8%) weight loss. Despite this, physicians frequently do not document obesity and/or counsel on weight loss. Our goal was to develop an innovative, easily disseminated workshop to improve resident physicians' skills and confidence in weight-loss counseling.
doi:10.4300/jgme-03-03-34 pmid:22942974 pmcid:PMC3179212 fatcat:7r6ottquhza7hbszzy2z6urd5e