A Cluster-Randomized Study of Technology-Assisted Health Coaching for Weight Management in Primary Care

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Obesity Management
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Primary care settings are crucial for managing overweight and obesity.
• Technology-assisted health coaching offers a scalable approach to weight management.
• Evaluating novel interventions like Goals for Eating and Moving (GEM) is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of the Goals for Eating and Moving (GEM) intervention for weight management in primary care.
• To compare GEM, a technology-assisted health coaching program, against enhanced usual care.

Main Methods:

• A cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 19 primary care teams.
• Intervention group received GEM (1 in-person, 12 telephone coaching sessions via software).
• Control group received enhanced usual care (educational handouts).
• Patients aged 18-69 with overweight or obesity were enrolled.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in weight change between GEM and enhanced usual care at 12 months (-1.4 kg vs -0.8 kg).
• No significant differences observed in secondary outcomes.
• Exploratory analysis indicated a potential increase in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in the GEM arm.

Conclusions:

• The GEM intervention did not result in clinically significant weight loss in this primary care setting.
• Findings suggest limitations in the current intervention intensity or delivery model.
• Future research should consider higher-intensity interventions and integrated medical/surgical options for obesity management.