Lack of Patient Interest - brief intervention

Details

Published on Tuesday, 13 June 2006

Do not always expect patients to express an interest in entering a weight management programme. The level of knowledge, concern for health, confidence and ability to overcome difficulties will vary among individual patients and some may justifiably decide that attempting to lose weight at this time is not practicable.

The most suitable strategy at this point is to ensure that the door is left open to revisit this discussion at some point in the future. Increase understanding of the health risks associated with obesity and encourage the patient to minimise any further weight gain. Make a record of the discussion about weight management in the patient’s notes to prompt a review of this and to ensure that other members of the team are aware that this has been broached with a patient. The approach should at all times be supportive.