GPs’ attitudes, objectives and barriers in counselling for obesity—a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide requires providing support for many patients. GPs in particular, as long-term supervisors of patients, are asked to deliver care to those affected. OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study aimed at identifying GPs' perspectives on counselling overweight and obese patients. METHODS: To that end, semi-structured interviews were conducted in Berlin with GPs regarding their objectives and barriers in overweight care. Fifteen GPs participated; interviews were audio taped, transcribed and analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Analysis showed a differentiated pattern of medical and psychosocial objectives in obesity treatment. Overall, it was seen that GPs wanted to play a relatively passive role in treatment of obesity. In particular, motivating patients was a key goal of primary care consultations; at the same time patients' lack of motivation was a main barrier to successful treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Care for obese patients is perceived as ineffective and frustrating. Recommended solutions include further education to improve GPs' communication techniques, e.g. to trigger patients' motivation.