OBJECTIVE

To identify provider recommendations and barriers in obesity management in a multicenter academic health system with extensive weight-loss management resources.

METHODS

A 26-question online survey was sent to attending physicians, trainees, and advanced practice providers in primary care specialties (internal medicine, family medicine, women's health) and endocrinology.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 26% (111/430). Of respondents, 50% were internal medicine, 24% family medicine, 16% women's health, and 9% endocrinology. The majority were attending physicians (54%) and residents (40%). About 50% of respondents advised weight loss for a body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m in >50% of clinic visits. Limited time (82%) was the most common reason for not discussing weight loss, followed by the perception that discussion would not change patient behavior, insufficient knowledge, and discomfort broaching the subject. Common barriers to prescribing anti-obesity medications included limited experience (57%) and concern for adverse reactions (26%). Only 44% offered bariatric surgery to >50% of their patients who met criteria. Primary reasons for not referring included concerns of high surgical risk from comorbidities (57%) and potential adverse events (32%). Endocrinology had the highest referral to surgery. Attending physicians and fellows were more likely than residents to advise weight loss at lower BMI, offer medications, and refer to bariatric surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals reluctance and lack of primary care confidence in managing obesity with pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery, especially in the earlier stages of obesity. Barriers to care include lack of clinic time, limited experience, and concerns about treatment risks.

ABBREVIATIONS

BMI = body mass index; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; IRB = Institutional Review Board.