Development and Pilot Testing of a Telehealth Weight Loss Program

ABSTRACT Introduction/Purpose Behaviorally based in-person multidisciplinary programs for weight loss have been studied for decades; however, delivery, scalability, and accessibility remain a challenge. We report pilot findings from a new asynchronous protocol-based telehealth weight loss program. Methods This 12-wk single-arm pilot study included adults (18–65 yr old) with body mass index (BMI) of 25–40 kg·m−2. The Home Weight Loss (HWL) program consisted of weekly app- and e-mail-delivered lesson modules covering traditional diet, exercise, and behavioral topics for weight loss. Daily weight and activity level were monitored automatically via a wireless scale and an activity tracker, and participants logged their caloric intake into the system. Monitoring data were reviewed weekly by clinicians who provided brief video-recorded feedback for participants to view at their convenience. Weight and height were measured in person at baseline and postintervention. Postintervention participants completed a satisfaction survey. Results Thirty participants (70% female; 80% White; mean age = 41 yr, standard deviation (SD) = 13.7 yr; mean BMI = 32.4 kg·m−2, SD = 4.3 kg·m−2) were enrolled, and 27 provided posttreatment data. Percent weight loss was 4.12% (SD = 4.22%). Overall, 93% of participants reported being satisfied with their overall experience in the program, and 59% cited individualized feedback as a benefit of the program. Conclusions The HWL program produced modest weight loss and demonstrated feasibility and participant acceptability. This model appears to be generally scalable for broader use and can be used to extend weight loss services for those not residing near medical centers and those in need of asynchronous and virtual feedback.