Empowering GPs with online digital apps to help patients with weight loss and management.
Excessive body weight has emerged as a significant public health concern, with its association to chronic diseases and its recognition as a chronic disease itself. As healthcare professionals, General Practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in addressing this multifaceted issue and supporting their patients in developing a healthier relationship with weight maintenance. In this blog post, we will explore the potential of employing digital apps to enhance health outcomes and empower patients on their journey to improved well-being.
Understanding the complexity of weight loss and management.
Research has highlighted the complexities surrounding weight management. Studies such as the one conducted by Smith and Hawks (2006) in the United States indicate that individuals often strive to be health-conscious and have a good understanding of healthy lifestyles. Paradoxically, they tend to judge themselves as unhealthy eaters and may face challenges with weight management. A similar loss of connection with food has been observed in the United Kingdom, with problematic eating behaviours like binge eating and emotional eating being associated with overweight and obesity (Warren et al., 2017).
The role of Digital Apps in overcoming weight related health issues. Benefits for GPs and Patients.
To address the challenges individuals face in putting their understanding of healthy lifestyles into practice, there is a need for comprehensive programs and support systems. Digital apps can play a pivotal role in offering continuous mentoring and empowering individuals to transition to a more positive and empowered way of eating and living (Smith & Hawks, 2006).
By incorporating digital apps into their practice, GPs can provide their patients with access to evidence-based resources, tools, and support that extend beyond the limitations of traditional consultations. These apps can offer personalised nutrition guidance, meal planning assistance, activity tracking, and behaviour change strategies tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences.
- Enhanced patient engagement for weight control and general health:
Digital apps foster active patient participation and engagement in their own health journey. Patients can track their progress, set goals, and receive real-time feedback, motivating them to make positive changes. - Continuous monitoring and support for weight management:
GPs can remotely monitor their patients’ progress, allowing for more frequent check-ins and adjustments to treatment plans. This ongoing support helps patients stay accountable and motivated throughout their weight management journey. - Tailored and evidence-based nutrition and exercise guidance:
Digital apps can deliver personalised recommendations based on individual health profiles, preferences, and goals. Patients receive evidence-based guidance on nutrition, exercise, and behaviour change, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. - Weight loss and ongoing weight maintenance – time and cost efficiency:
Digital Apps can optimise GP’s time by reducing the need for repetitive dietary advice and monitoring. Patients can access resources and support conveniently, eliminating the need for frequent in-person visits and reducing healthcare costs. - Accessible weight loss advice and general healthcare support:
Digital Apps offer the potential to reach a larger population, transcending geographical barriers and providing support to individuals who may otherwise face limited access to healthcare services.
Conclusion: the many benefits of a Digital App for patients seeking weight loss help and guidance.
Employing Digital APPs as part of the comprehensive care provided by GPs has the potential to significantly improve health outcomes for patients struggling with weight management. By leveraging technology to support continuous mentoring, personalised guidance, and enhanced patient engagement, GPs can empower their patients to develop healthier lifestyles and improve their overall well-being. As the challenges of obesity and weight-related diseases continue to rise, embracing digital solutions can contribute to more effective and patient-centred care approaches in the fight against this pressing public health issue.If you are a GP and would like to discover how the ME for Me digital APP can help your practice assist patients with weight loss and ongoing management please contact us.
If you are an individual looking for a practical, evidenced-based and proven method of achievable weight loss and ongoing management be sure to sign up for the ME for Me APP. Do it today for a healthier tomorrow.
References:
- Smith, M., & Hawks, S. (2006). Patient Empowerment or the Emperor’s New Clothes? Journal of Holistic Nursing, 24(1), 49-56.
- Warren, C., Hocking, S., Pitts, N. B., Gao, W., & Garcia, J. (2017). Emotional eating in England: Associations with age, sex and socioeconomic characteristics. Appet
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