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Objective: Integrating pediatric obesity care into primary care remains challenging, especially in underserved areas. To address this, the REACH-KIDS (Reverse Consult Care Model for the Comprehensive Treatment of Pediatric Obesity in Primary Care) program, which aims to empower primary care clinician through education and resources was developed. This study describes the design and early evaluation of a quality improvement initiative aimed at building PCP capacity in pediatric obesity care using a collaborative care model. Methods: The REACH-KIDS model was implemented across two sites, involving didactic mini-series sessions designed to educate primary care clinicians on obesity care. The program's feasibility was evaluated by tracking attendance, engagement, satisfaction, and knowledge gained. Between November 2023 and May 2024, two mini-series were conducted across the sites, and feedback was gathered to assess shifts in clinical practice, particularly in anti-obesity medication use. Results: At Site one, 68, 67, and 67 attendees participated in September, October, and November 2023 sessions, respectively. At Site two, 42, 45, and 52 attendees participated in March, April, and May 2024. Most attendees (75%) reported a shift in clinical practice regarding obesity pharmacotherapy after attending the mini-series. Satisfaction with the sessions was high, and knowledge assessments significantly improved participants' understanding of obesity treatment options. Notably, participants reported increased confidence in prescribing anti-obesity medications, indicating a positive clinical impact of the educational intervention. Conclusions: The REACH-KIDS model demonstrated feasibility and effectiveness in improving primary care clinicians' knowledge of comprehensive obesity care. This quality improvement initiative highlights the potential of education and collaboration to enhance obesity care in primary care settings. Future studies should focus on expanding this model and assessing its impact on clinical outcomes in underserved populations. Limitations include the restricted geographic scope and reliance on self-reported changes in clinical practice; future work will require objective measures of patient outcomes and broader implementation.
Hegedus et al. (Fri,) studied this question.