Raising the issue

Patient Interested - brief intervention

If the patient expresses interest in proceeding with a weight management programme, sickness a number of options can be explored which could include: exercise referral, a self-help programme, a commercial slimming club or other group programme. Regardless of option chosen, it is important that baseline data (such as: BMI – height and weight measurements, waist circumference, blood pressure, blood glucose, blood lipid levels) are recorded for future monitoring, audit and evaluation purposes. If a decision to treat within the practice is taken, it is important to have in place a protocol, which clearly outlines the management process. The first step should be a thorough and detailed assessment, so that the intervention can be matched to individual needs.