MOVE! multidisciplinary programs: Challenges and resources for weight management treatment in VHA

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Veterans Health Administration Initiatives
• Weight Management Programs

Background:

• The MOVE! program is a successful weight management and physical activity initiative within the Veteran's Health Administration (VHA).
• Current implementation often focuses on delivering educational materials, potentially limiting comprehensive care.
• There is a need to explore advanced treatment strategies within the VHA for overweight and obese Veterans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss VHA weight management efforts beyond standard educational material delivery.
• To present a case study of challenges in Veteran weight management.
• To describe a multidisciplinary, individualized weight management clinic as a higher-intensity component of the MOVE! program.

Main Methods:

• Case study analysis of the overweight/obese Veteran population.
• Description of a local, multidisciplinary, individualized weight management clinic implementation.
• Presentation of program outcomes and sustainability considerations.

Main Results:

• The case study highlights unique challenges in managing weight among Veterans.
• The multidisciplinary clinic demonstrates a higher-intensity, individualized approach within the MOVE! framework.
• Program outcomes were evaluated, and challenges to long-term sustainability were identified.

Conclusions:

• Individualized, multidisciplinary clinics can enhance the MOVE! program's multicomponent model.
• Addressing specific Veteran population challenges is crucial for effective weight management.
• Sustaining these higher-intensity programs requires careful planning and resource management.