Education and supervision of health care professionals to initiate, implement and improve management of obesity

Abstract The objective of this study was to explore whether there were differences in organisational setting and professional intervention between health professionals who, after 1 year of education, and ongoing supervision for all together 30 months, started obesity treatment and those who did not. Furthermore to analyse what factors facilitate the start of obesity treatment. One hundred and seventy-one health professionals from different parts of Sweden were included in the education. One hundred and thirty-five health professionals remained in the study for up to 2.5 years. Eighty-seven subjects started the obesity treatment program, whereas 48 subjects had no possibility to start treatment. Significantly more of those who started the behavioural treatment program had previous theoretical education and clinical experience of obesity. They also, to a greater degree, had a go-ahead from the management and support from physicians, colleagues and were more likely to be part of a team or had a colleague to work with. In addition, they could find the time to organise and plan the treatment. Supervision had a significant positive influence on starting up the treatment program. Education, working organization, a structural behavioural treatment program, seems to be significant factors in facilitating and increasing the likelihood for a start.