Date of this Version

7-21-2021

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

Obesity is a complex and multifactorial public health issue. The prevalence of obesity in the world has increased significantly in the past four decades, and in the United States alone more than 90 million people are affected. It is associated with chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, sleep apnea, and certain cancers. Obesity is responsible for high expenses not only in healthcare, but in society as well. Obesity management requires a multifaceted approach to reduce weight and improve health outcomes. There is a need for a cost-effective treatment of obesity that helps improve quality of life, provides patient centered care, and offers a long-term solution. Mobile health is an effective tool that assists with promotion of behavioral changes while increasing patient provider interaction and access to information. The purpose of this project was to improve knowledge in the use of mobile health and perceived competence of using this technology for weight management. A total of 10 adults who are part of the staff of a medical bariatric office participated in a quality improvement project. Participants were evaluated in their knowledge of mHealth and perceived competence to use it in weight management. Participants completed a demographic survey and a pre- and post-intervention survey. Statistical analysis was performed using a Mann Whitney U test. Upon completion of statistical analysis, a significant improvement in test scores from pre-intervention to post-intervention surveys were found. Results of this quality improvement project can be used to increase knowledge and perceived competence in the use of mHealth in providers for further implementation of a clinical practice change in weight management program.

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