How to deliver high-quality obesity counseling in primary care using the 5As framework

Sheira Schlair, Sarah Moore, Michelle McMacken, Melanie Jay

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

• Objective: To review the content of the 5As of obesity counseling for primary care physicians as well as strategies to efficiently address the 5As during a typical 20-minute visit. • Methods: Review of the literature. • Results: Obese patients are evaluated in the primary care setting for multiple weight-related comorbidities and often seek help from their primary care providers to lose weight. Several studies have suggested that physicians and other providers do not adequately counsel obese patients about their weight because of barriers such as poor reimbursement, lack of obesity-related counseling skills, and lack of time. The 5As (Assess, Advise, Agree, Assist, Arrange) is an evidence-based, behavior-change counseling framework endorsed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the United States Preventive Services Task Force. • Conclusion: With the recent announcement that Medicare will now cover intensive behavioral counseling for obese patients, more providers may be interested in gaining the necessary skills to provide high-quality weight management counseling.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)221-229
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Clinical Outcomes Management
Volume19
Issue number5
StatePublished - May 2012

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health Policy

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