A brief online tool to increase behavioral weight loss treatment initiation: Protocol for a cluster randomized trial

Area of Science:

• Obesity treatment and behavioral health interventions.
• Primary care and digital health solutions.

Background:

• Obesity is a major health concern, with behavioral treatments being the primary approach for adults.
• Low uptake of available weight loss programs remains a significant barrier, even when cost-effective.
• The MyHealthPath Tool was developed to enhance treatment initiation by providing personalized feedback pre-appointment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the MyHealthPath Tool in increasing the initiation of behavioral weight loss treatments.
• To assess the impact of a pre-appointment online tool on patient motivation and engagement in weight management.

Main Methods:

• A cluster randomized controlled trial involving primary care practitioners and their patients.
• Patients were randomized to either receive the MyHealthPath Tool intervention or a control condition.
• Outcomes measured include treatment initiation within two months, attendance, and weight change over six months.

Main Results:

• The study is ongoing; primary results regarding treatment initiation are pending.
• Secondary outcomes such as treatment attendance and weight change will provide further insights.
• Implementation outcomes like reach indicators are also being collected to assess feasibility.

Conclusions:

• The MyHealthPath Tool shows potential as a low-touch intervention to improve behavioral weight loss treatment uptake.
• Successful implementation could enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of obesity management in primary care settings.
• Further research will confirm its efficacy in a real-world clinical setting.