Optimizing the nutrition support care model: Analysis of survey data

Area of Science:

• Clinical Nutrition
• Healthcare Management
• Medical Education

Background:

• Malnutrition is prevalent yet underdiagnosed, leading to poor clinical outcomes.
• Physician involvement in nutrition support teams (NSTs) is suboptimal despite proven benefits in reducing patient complications.
• There is a need to understand current NST structures and physician engagement to develop improved nutrition care models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey nutrition support teams (NSTs) and healthcare professionals (HCPs) regarding their demographics, successes, and challenges.
• To identify barriers to professional growth and the effectiveness of current nutrition support practices.
• To inform the development of novel nutrition support care models and enhance physician integration.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to assess demographics of NSTs, factors influencing NST success, nutrition education components, and barriers to professional development.
• Data from 235 complete surveys were analyzed, focusing on respondent demographics and institutional practices.
• Statistical analysis, including correlation, was used to evaluate geographic distribution and reported factors.

Main Results:

• Physicians reported higher membership in NSTs (80.7%) compared to dietitians (56.5%).
• Significant barriers to NSTs included financial concerns (48.9%), leadership issues (30.6%), and healthcare professional interest (23.4%).
• A majority of respondents (73.6%) desired more nutrition training but faced limitations in protected time, travel, and administrative support.

Conclusions:

• Formalizing physician roles and enhancing interdisciplinary expertise within NSTs are crucial.
• Implementing cost-effective malnutrition screening and intervention protocols is recommended.
• Increased funding for clinical practice, education, and research is necessary to support pragmatic nutrition support care models.