Incorporating Mindful Eating Applications Into Primary Care for Weight Loss

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project was to educate providers about mindful eating (ME) mobile applications as supplementary tools for weight management, addressing the limited resources available in Glenwood Springs, CO. The presentation aimed to boost PCPs' familiarity and confidence in recommending and utilizing ME mobile applications within a rural primary care clinic. Background: Obesity continues to strain healthcare costs, complicates the management of chronic health conditions, and diminishes overall quality of life. Each unit increase in BMI adds approximately $2,505 to individual annual healthcare costs. Furthermore, obesity is estimated to cause six times higher healthcare expenses, totaling around $114 billion annually. Being overweight increases the risk of comorbidity. Although Colorado has historically maintained a low average BMI, there has been a steady increase since 2011. In Glenwood Springs, CO, resources for weight management beyond primary care provider (PCP) recommendations are limited. Methods: A PowerPoint presentation was delivered to four medical doctors and three physician assistants at Glenwood Medical Associates (GMA), followed by a post-pre survey. Data was collected and analyzed using quantitative measures from the post-survey on familiarity and comfort. Trends in relationships were illustrated through descriptive analysis presented in charts. Results: Findings showed that providers who were already familiar with ME did not experience significant changes in their perceptions, while those with limited familiarity reported improved knowledge and comfort afterward. All providers indicated a greater likelihood of recommending ME mobile applications to support patient weight loss as an adjunct. Providers at GMA often face challenges with patient adherence and local support, and view diet and exercise recommendations as “somewhat” beneficial; many believe they lack the time needed during visits to address weight loss through behavioral habits effectively. Additionally, concerns about costs and compliance significantly influence the treatment options available for both patients and providers. Conclusions: The project found that providing education about ME was not beneficial for providers who already felt confident with their understanding but successfully increased the familiarity and comfort of those who felt less confident. The promotion of ME mobile applications as a weight loss tool was effective through demonstration and presentation.