Weight Loss in Primary Care

Many physicians say they lack staff to help patients with weight loss.
USA Today (3/16, Hellmich) reports that many physicians "say they don't have staff able to help patients with weight loss, according to a survey of 290 primary-care physicians by Harris Interactive." The study showed that "89% of doctors believe it's their responsibility to help patients lose weight." But, "72% say no one in their office has been trained to deal with weight problems," while only "45% say they regularly discuss weight with their patients." Christine Ferguson, director of the STOP Obesity Alliance, a coalition of professional groups, businesses, unions, insurers, and healthcare providers, said that "bigger medical groups ought to have health professionals on staff who are trained in treating obesity."