Variations in weight management services in Scotland: a national survey of weight management provision

Read, S. and Logue, J. (2016) Variations in weight management services in Scotland: a national survey of weight management provision. Journal of Public Health, 38(3), e325-e335. (doi: 10.1093/pubmed/fdv132) (PMID:26386909)

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Abstract

Background: Despite National guidance recommending their use, there is uncertainty regarding the best way to deliver weight management services across the UK and worldwide. Methods: To ascertain access, provision and interventions used in lifestyle Tier 2 and specialist Tier 3 weight management services in Scotland, a survey was distributed to all mainland health boards covering pathways for referral, eligibility criteria, intervention format and definitions of attendance completion and adherence. Results: Nine Health boards provided information on their weight management services. The provision of services was low. Only four health boards offered services for those with a BMI 25–30 kg/m2. Lifestyle Tier 2 services were mainly weekly or fortnightly group sessions for 8–12 weeks delivered by dietitians or community workers. Specialist Tier 3 services were largely similar to lifestyle Tier 2 services. The provision of specialist interventions including pharmacotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy sessions and low-calorie prescribed diets was low. Conclusions: This national survey has illustrated large disparities in the provision of weight management across Scotland, a likely consequence of uncertainty regarding best practice. There is a clear requirement for the evaluation of existing services to identify those that lead to the largest improvements in health outcomes and are cost-effective.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Read, Ms Stephanie and Logue, Dr Jennifer
Authors: Read, S., and Logue, J.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Journal Name:Journal of Public Health
Publisher:Oxford University Press
ISSN:1741-3842
ISSN (Online):1741-3850
Published Online:17 October 2016
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2016 Oxford University Press
First Published:First published in Journal of Public Health 38(3):e325-e335
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
667531Longitudinal Observations of Weight Reduction (LOWER) - Feasibility StudyJennifer LogueScottish Executive Health Department (SEHHD-CSO)CZH/4/1078RI CARDIOVASCULAR & MEDICAL SCIENCES