Medical nutrition therapy for overweight youth in their medical home: The KIDPOWER experience

Abstract

Objective To determine the feasibility and impact of implementing a standardized medical nutrition therapy (MNT) protocol to treat overweight children in their medical home. Primary outcomes evaluated were changes in eating behaviors, television habits, and weight status. Methods A MNT protocol with handouts (known as KIDPOWER) was delivered by a registered dietitian (RD) to overweight children (2–20 years) in 9 primary care practices in a rural community. A medical record review yielded height, weight and selected patient/parent reported eating and TV behaviors from each MNT visit. Mean values were compared by paired samples t-tests. Changes in behaviors and BMI z score were compared using repeated measures ANOVA. Results For patients with at least three MNT visits ( n = 109) significant improvements in eating and TV viewing habits were seen by the third visit. Weight status, as determined by a significant decline in mean BMI z score, was improved. Conclusion The KIDPOWER protocol delivered by a RD in the pediatric medical home aided overweight youth in making behavior changes that positively impacted their weight status. Practice implications Reimbursement to RDs for treating childhood obesity is improving and KIDPOWER provides a model and tools for community practice.