Addressing the obesity challenge: A model for personalized management in primary care

Area of Science:

• Obesity Medicine
• Primary Care Management
• Value-Based Healthcare

Background:

• Primary care practitioners (PCPs) are integral to managing persons living with obesity (PwOs).
• Barriers such as time constraints, miscommunication, and stigma limit effective PCP-PwO interactions.
• Current models often fail to fully integrate PwOs into their care journey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline strategies for centering PwOs in value-based care within primary care settings.
• To provide PCPs with specific recommendations for managing obesity.
• To develop a roadmap for PwOs navigating primary care for obesity management.

Main Methods:

• Developing a model inspired by Obesity Canada's 5As of Obesity Management.
• Creating a structured visitation plan for primary care.
• Emphasizing shared decision-making for lifestyle and pharmacological treatments.
• Incorporating PwO perspectives throughout the care process.

Main Results:

• A framework is proposed to guide PCPs in daily practice.
• A roadmap is outlined to support PwOs within the primary care setting.
• The model aims to overcome common barriers in PCP-PwO interactions.
• Joint decision-making and PwO-centered care are prioritized.

Conclusions:

• Implementing these recommendations can optimize PCP resource utilization.
• The proposed strategies are expected to enhance the well-being of PwOs.
• A PwO-centered, value-based approach can improve obesity management outcomes.
• Enhanced communication and shared decision-making are key to effective care.