Abstract
Background: We aimed to evaluate current childhood obesity management by providers and improve management of pediatric obesity through a provider-focused educational intervention. Methods: We surveyed family medicine and pediatric providers regarding documentation and intervention, knowledge gaps, and educational needs for childhood obesity. An educational program was implemented regarding detection, documentation, and follow-up/referral of pediatric obesity and comorbid conditions. We reviewed charts for 50 overweight or obese children before and after intervention. Results: The survey identified lack of time (73%) and perception of parents (77%) as the most frequent provider barriers to pediatric obesity care. Provider referrals increased from 6% to 16% after intervention, and laboratory testing increased from 14% to 26%. No changes were noted in discussion of weight status, diagnosis/documentation, or billing. Conclusion: Provider education can improve appropriate ordering of laboratory studies and referrals for overweight children. Different intervention approaches may improve billing and documentation practices for pediatric obesity.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 557-563 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Pediatric Health Care |
Volume | 32 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 1 2018 |
Keywords
- Adolescent
- clinical practice pattern
- pediatric
- pediatric obesity
- primary care
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health