Practical clinical behavioral treatment of obesity

Abstract

The objective was to create a method/model that works in practical clinical treatment for health care personnel as well as for the patients, to educate and supervise health care staff according to this model and to initiate long-term treatment of obese patients in a health care setting. The hypothesis was that it is possible to successfully initiate behavior-modified treatment in the form of a structured treatment program as a method and a tool adapted to use in health care. The aim of this article is to describe an extensive structural cognitive behavioral treatment program for patients. The treatment program is documented in a handbook for supervisors and a self-monitoring book for patients. This handbook is used in the education of the health care personnel and supports the supervisor in the clinical work with the patients. The main purpose of all individual or group treatment is to bring about reduction of body weight or weight control. To obtain weight control through lifestyle changes a balance has to be found between eating behavior, physical activity and body weight control. To reach this kind of balance it is important to have treatment programs where the aim and goals are clearly declared. The structure and the content of the program shall motivate and create interest for changes in the overweight person’s behavior. This treatment program includes a schematic survey and an example of a structured treatment program. Over the last few years, 850 nurses, dietitians and other health care personnel have been educated, representing 400 primary health care centers and hospitals within Sweden. Overall these participants find their education and supervision meaningful and valuable.