Weight management for Black United States Veterans: Employee and patient perspectives

Veterans who self-identify as Black (hereafter Black veterans) and use the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)'s MOVE!® Weight Management Program lose less weight than other veterans. Understanding factors affecting this difference could identify solutions.

We interviewed 18 MOVE! employees and 26 Black veterans who engaged in MOVE! in the United States of America (2022/2023). Separate semi-structured interview guides focused on three research questions: 1) What are Black veterans' experiences in MOVE!?; 2) What factors impact weight management?; 3) How can care be improved? Transcripts were analyzed using deductive/inductive coding and rapid analysis.

Employees and veterans were satisfied with MOVE! experiences. Participants described social determinants of health that could affect weight management or weight loss disparities, including stress, negative interpersonal or institutional experiences, bias, cultural differences, and health care experiences. Employees and veterans noted care could be improved by adjusting materials to address culturally-relevant foods and several suggested more diverse MOVE! staff. Participants expressed interest in training for MOVE! staff and care tailored to preferences/needs.

To ensure veteran-centered care, MOVE! could increase its focus on general health and functioning, managing mental health and stress, culturally-relevant foods, and training. Ongoing engagement with veterans could support these efforts.