Strategies used by providers to support individuals with spinal cord injury in weight management: a qualitative study of provider perspectives

Study design This is a descriptive qualitative study. Objectives To explore recommended strategies employed by healthcare providers to support individuals with SCI in weight management. Setting Fourteen veteran administration hospitals in the United States and the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (SRALab) SCI Model Systems in Illinois. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with interprofessional SCI providers involved in weight management with individuals living with SCI. Thematic analysis methods were used. Results A total of 25 interprofessional providers were interviewed. Providing clinical expertise to assist in weight management included (1) checking progress or status of weight over time, (2) monitoring and tracking other health-related indicators, (3) stressing weight-related health risks, (4) providing education, (5) encouraging healthy behaviors, and (6) identifying and accessing resources. Fostering provider-patient relationships included (1) establishing and maintaining rapport and (2) tailoring/individualizing weight management treatment. Coordinating a team approach included (1) involving a dietitian or nutritionist, (2) communicating the same message, and (3) involving the informal caregiver/family. Conclusion Weight management strategies should incorporate patient preferences and goals, informed through provider expert and personalized clinical advice, and supported within the context of interprofessional team collaboration that includes caregivers and family.