Exploring Self-Efficacy in Australian General Practitioners Managing Patient Obesity: A Qualitative Survey Study

Area of Science:

• General Practice
• Obesity Management
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Obesity is a significant health concern in Australia, with general practitioners (GPs) frequently consulted for weight loss assistance.
• GPs often report low self-efficacy and outcome expectations regarding obesity management, impacting their engagement in weight counselling.
• Existing challenges in managing overweight and obese patients necessitate exploring factors influencing GP confidence and behaviour.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the factors influencing general practitioners' confidence and behaviour in managing obesity.
• To identify key themes related to GP experiences with obesity management within a pilot program.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative survey design was employed, involving semistructured interviews with twelve general practitioners.
• Interpretive analysis of interview transcripts was conducted, guided by social cognitive theory.

Main Results:

• Five primary themes emerged: perceived knowledge and skills, structured management approach, GP-patient relationship dynamics, acknowledged barriers to weight loss, and prior experience influencing outcome expectations.
• GPs expressed a preference for structured tools to aid in obesity management.
• The study highlighted the impact of focusing solely on weight and BMI versus emphasizing positive lifestyle changes.

Conclusions:

• General practitioners are receptive to structured tools for managing obesity.
• Shifting focus from solely weight and BMI to celebrating positive lifestyle changes can enhance GP self-efficacy.
• A more authentic GP-patient interaction may be fostered by de-emphasizing weight as the sole measure of success.