Raising the Topic: Clinical Needs Assessment and Co-Design of Targeted Clinical Resources for Primary Healthcare Practitioners to Prevent and Manage Childhood Obesity

Introduction

This study aimed to (a) determine the unmet clinical resource needs of multidisciplinary primary healthcare practitioners (PHPs) to overcome evidence-based barriers to preventing and managing childhood obesity in practice; and (b) co-design precision solutions to the identified needs of PHPs.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted across three phases: (1) clinical needs assessment with 18 multidisciplinary PHPs over five virtual focus groups, (2) participatory, user-centred co-design via an online design workshop with five PHPs and four caregivers, and (3) clinical resource prototype development and qualitative user feedback. Data was thematically analysed using the Framework Method.

Results

Clinical needs assessment (phase 1) identified unmet resource needs across four themes: (a) visual and simple clinically integrated media; (b) positive, health-focused language and countering shame; (c) referral opportunities and clinical upskilling in priority areas; (d) practical family-based, culturally appropriate and early years focus. Co-design (phase 2) developed nine clinical resource solutions. A prototype was developed for clinical piloting that targets the pervasive barrier of initiating a conversation about weight and healthy growth—the BRAVE (Build relationships, Raise respectfully, Ask about attitudes, Validate values, Engage & enable) framework. The purpose of BRAVE is to improve PHP self-efficacy to raise the topic of weight and to provide a safe, trusted and empowering environment for children and families.

Conclusions

This study uncovered unmet clinical resource needs for PHPs to confidently address childhood obesity and co-designed a new clinical resource to help PHPs raise the topic of weight with families that is ready for clinical piloting.