A qualitative evaluation of an NHS Weight Management Programme for obese patients in Liverpool

Webb, R.J. and Davies, I.G. and Johnson, B. and Abayomi, J.C. (2014) A qualitative evaluation of an NHS Weight Management Programme for obese patients in Liverpool. Nutrition and Food Science, 44 (2). pp. 144-155. ISSN 0034-6659

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Abstract

Abstract
Purpose – The increasing prevalence of obesity in the UK has been of concern for some time. This is
particularly true in Liverpool and in response the Liverpool Weight Management Programme (LWMP)
was devised. It offers a service involving dietitians and other expert agencies working towards
facilitating dietary and lifestyle changes in obese NHS patients in Liverpool via a 12-week education
programme. This qualitative study aims to investigate patients’ experiences of the LWMP.
Design/methodology/approach – Informed volunteers participated in focus groups exploring
their experiences following the programme. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed
verbatim, then analysed following a thematic approach utilising constant comparison analysis to
allow a qualitative view of the LWMP to be formed.
Findings – Participants described an increase in immediate self-confidence during the LWMP,
as opposed to coercion and pressure experienced elsewhere. The results also show the implementation of
dietary changes by participants and favourable opinions towards both the group settings and
patient-centred care. Participants also positively described the LWMP regarding the programmes social
approach and aspects of programme content; however, there were issues with over-dependence on
healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals also need to recognise that long-term empowerment
may still be lacking and that follow-up support and the effectiveness of some areas of programme
content need to be considered to ensure patients benefit from sustainable weight management.
Originality/value – This paper addresses an identified need for qualitative research in the area of
health service weight management programmes and highlights the importance of long-term support in
empowering patients by exploring their lived experience of the LWMP.

Item Type:	Article
Faculty / Department:	Faculty of Human and Digital Sciences > School of Health and Sport Sciences
Depositing User:	Richard Webb
Date Deposited:	18 Dec 2018 11:40
Last Modified:	18 Apr 2020 10:29
URI:	https://hira.hope.ac.uk/id/eprint/2728

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