Community perspectives on physicians' roles in nutritional care: a survey from Northeast and Central Pennsylvania

Despite longitudinal patient relationships, many physicians report limited preparedness to deliver nutrition counseling, and patient expectations remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess community members' expectations regarding nutrition education and to clarify perceived roles, experiences, and gaps in physician-provided nutritional care.

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adults in Northeast and Central Pennsylvania between June and July 2024. An anonymous 44-item questionnaire distributed through community partners assessed nutrition knowledge, nutrition information sources, experiences receiving nutrition counseling, and expectations of physician's roles in nutrition care. Descriptive analyses summarized participant characteristics and responses, with sensitivity analyses excluding participants nutrition-related qualifications.

Of 169 respondents, 144 completed the survey. Most (91%) believed physicians should have strong nutrition knowledge, and 67% wanted doctors more involved in their nutrition education. Only 5% said their nutrition concerns were always addressed, while 26% said never. Limited visit time, lack of formal nutrition training, and difficulty navigating conflicting nutrition information were identified as key barriers.

Respondents strongly supported a more active role for physicians in nutritional care. Suggested improvements included providing educational resources, discussing nutrition during appointments, and staying current with nutrition research. These findings will inform future curriculum development to enhance physicians' nutritional competency.