Implementing the MOVE! weight-management program in the Veterans Health Administration, 2007-2010: a qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Organizational Behavior
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Obesity affects one-third of US veterans in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), increasing chronic disease risk.
• The VHA implemented the evidence-based MOVE! weight-management program nationally to address this issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate organizational factors influencing the implementation of the MOVE! program within 10 VHA facilities.

Main Methods:

• A multiple, holistic case study design was employed.
• Qualitative data were gathered through 68 interviews with key personnel, including program coordinators, champions, managers, and clinicians.
• Data analysis involved coding, memorandum writing, and data display construction.

Main Results:

• Organizational readiness for change and the presence of an innovation champion were key facilitators of MOVE! implementation.
• Management support and resource availability presented barriers or had mixed effects.
• Identified barriers required workarounds or acceptance of program limitations, but did not halt implementation.

Conclusions:

• Implementing policy-driven weight-management programs in healthcare settings is complex, particularly without new resources.
• Establishing strong, supportive organizational policies and practices is crucial for consistent, high-quality program delivery.