Feasibility and acceptability of a 1-page tool to help physicians assess and discuss obesity with parents of preschoolers

Abstract

Objective: To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a brief tool to help pediatricians communicate with parents of preschoolers about obesity risk, prevention, and treatment.

Methods: The 2-sided Assessment and Targeted Messages (ATM) tool developed by the investigators included sections to assess nutrition and physical activity, self-efficacy and readiness-to-change, obesity-related family history, and treatment/prevention recommendations. Twenty-five pediatricians were recruited to use the ATM and then surveyed regarding their opinions of its feasibility and acceptability.

Results: Response rate was 60%. Most ATM features were considered somewhat or very useful by the majority of respondents. The majority of physicians (62%) indicated that they were somewhat likely to use the ATM in the future, with only 23% indicating that they were very likely to use it. The greatest barrier to its use was time.

Conclusion: Pediatricians considered the ATM tool moderately feasible and acceptable. Time-efficient methods to help physicians address obesity should be explored.