Primary Care Provider Time Limited Interventions for Obesity an Integrative Review

Abstract

Obesity and excess weight are significant health problems in the United States, affecting the majority of United States citizens. The prevalence of obesity is already a large burden on individuals and society, but the steady growth is an ominous warning of what’s to come. If not addressed, the various complications of obesity are multiple and significant with often both immediate and lifelong sequelae. With an already taxed healthcare system the additional costs of obesity related healthcare are further depleting resources. Primary care providers have the best opportunity to influence this population and are thus on the front lines of this grave problem. Studies have shown that when providers counsel patients in weight and lifestyle, it can make a positive difference. The aim of this study is to identify the most effective methods and brief interventions that can be implemented in the primary care setting to achieve weight loss success. A literature search was performed in order to create an integrative review, and the results showed several consistencies. Importantly these recommendations can help achieve clinically significant weight loss from accessing primary care, if these services are reimbursed.