The influence of referral, initial assessment, and logistical factors on dropout at an adult weight management service: A semi structured interview study

IF 2.4 4区医学 Q3 ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM

Obesity research & clinical practice Pub Date : 2025-11-01 Epub Date: 2025-10-30 DOI:10.1016/j.orcp.2025.10.007

Jordan D. Everitt , Enzo M. Battista-Dowds , Daniel Heggs , Amanda LM Squire

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

Patient retention is crucial to the effectiveness of weight management services; however, high dropout rates are a significant limitation. This study aimed to explore the influence of referral, initial assessment and logistical factors on dropout and retention within an NHS weight management service.

Methods

This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with 37 patients from an NHS weight management service. Interviews were conducted either face-to-face or via telephone, focusing on the impact of referral processes, initial consultations, intervention selection, and logistical factors on early-stage retention. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically.

Results

Referrers to the weight management service reportedly had limited knowledge of the service and what it involved, and several participants expressed a desire for more detailed information at referral, which might better shape patient expectations and provide an opportunity for an informed and considered decision about engaging. Initial assessment was perceived as a critical opportunity to influence motivation, though experiences were mixed, and some viewed the appointment as perfunctory and system-focused, as opposed to person centred. Participants reported a desire for explorative discussions to align treatment options with individual needs and preferences. While most participants were satisfied with appointment scheduling and locations, travel-related issues and competing commitments emerged as barriers for a minority.

Conclusion

Early engagement stages, particularly referral and initial assessment, are pivotal in shaping patient expectations and a key opportunity to positively influence patient motivation. Participant feedback offers valuable insights for refining service delivery, which could improve retention outcomes in weight management services.

查看原文本刊更多论文

转介、初始评估和后勤因素对成人体重管理服务中退出的影响：一项半结构化访谈研究。

背景：患者保留对体重管理服务的有效性至关重要；然而，高辍学率是一个显著的限制。本研究旨在探讨转诊、初始评估和后勤因素对NHS体重管理服务中退出和保留的影响。方法：本定性研究采用半结构化访谈的37例患者从NHS体重管理服务。访谈通过面对面或电话进行，重点关注转诊流程、初步咨询、干预选择和后勤因素对早期保留的影响。采访被记录下来，逐字抄录，并按主题进行分析。结果：据报道，体重管理服务的转诊者对该服务及其涉及的内容了解有限，一些参与者表示希望在转诊时获得更详细的信息，这可能更好地塑造患者的期望，并为参与的知情和深思熟虑的决定提供机会。最初的评估被认为是影响动机的关键机会，尽管经历不一，一些人认为任命是敷衍和以系统为中心的，而不是以人为中心的。参与者表示希望进行探索性讨论，使治疗方案与个人需求和偏好保持一致。虽然大多数参与者对预约安排和地点感到满意，但与旅行相关的问题和相互竞争的承诺成为少数人的障碍。结论：早期参与阶段，特别是转诊和初步评估，是塑造患者期望的关键，也是积极影响患者动机的关键机会。参与者的反馈为改进服务提供了有价值的见解，这可以改善体重管理服务的保留结果。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

Obesity research & clinical practice 医学-内分泌学与代谢

CiteScore

7.10

自引率

0.00%

发文量

审稿时长

49 days

期刊介绍： The aim of Obesity Research & Clinical Practice (ORCP) is to publish high quality clinical and basic research relating to the epidemiology, mechanism, complications and treatment of obesity and the complication of obesity. Studies relating to the Asia Oceania region are particularly welcome, given the increasing burden of obesity in Asia Pacific, compounded by specific regional population-based and genetic issues, and the devastating personal and economic consequences. The journal aims to expose health care practitioners, clinical researchers, basic scientists, epidemiologists, and public health officials in the region to all areas of obesity research and practice. In addition to original research the ORCP publishes reviews, patient reports, short communications, and letters to the editor (including comments on published papers). The proceedings and abstracts of the Annual Meeting of the Asia Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity is published as a supplement each year.