Improving the Management of Obesity in a Rural Community

Abstract

Background: Nearly half of the US population is overweight or obese, carrying with them a higher risk for morbidity and mortality and rising healthcare costs. Rural women are disproportionately affected, with higher rates of obesity, obesity-related chronic diseases, and poorer health outcomes (Befort, Nazir, & Perri, 2012; Penney, Rainham, Dummer & Kirk, 2014). There may be several factors. In general, rural health systems are more isolated, with a lack of healthcare resources including quality providers, technology, and public health services (IOM, 2009). Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to assess how obesity is managed in women residing in one rural community - Ritzville, Washington. Methods and Aims: Charts of all women ≥ 18 years of age receiving care at Hometown Family Medicine clinic (HTFM) were queried for a diagnosis of obesity. The prevalence of obesity in this group was calculated. Of those identified as obese, thirty charts were selected at random and reviewed. The following was determined: 1) Prevalence of chronic disease in adult women who receive care at HTFM; and 2) The management of obesity at HTFM compared with current evidence-based guidelines. This was followed by a community assessment to determine the resources available for the prevention and treatment of obesity in Ritzville, WA. Results: The prevalence of obesity (36.9%) and chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes type 2, dyslipidemia, and heart disease) in the population studied were found to be significantly higher than both state and national averages. Due to a lack of basic resources, (access to weight loss specialties, exercise facilities, healthy foods, etc.) management of obesity in Ritzville, WA may be challenging. Findings from this study helped to inform resource allocation and identified opportunities to improve the management of obesity based on current practice guidelines. Primary health care may be the only opportunity to promote healthy behaviors and improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population. Action needs to be taken or the burden of obesity will continue to rise.