Table 1.

Survey questions

Perceived skills (1–3) 1 = Low to 3 = High

My ability to assess weight status and associated risk factors

My ability to address weight management and obesity issues with patients

My ability to teach and motivate patients toward physical activity

My ability to teach and motivate patients toward healthy eating practices

My ability to use behavior modification techniques to make lifestyle changes in your patients

My ability to deal with family issues around weight management

Professional Attitudes (1–5) 1 = Strongly disagree 5 = Strongly agree

I do not feel that obesity intervention is part of my scope of practice

I believe that a clinician’s role is simply to raise the issue of obesity rather than intervene

I do not have time to deal with the issue of obesity in my practice

Obesity is too difficult an issue to tackle therefore I do not address it in my practice

I feel overwhelmed by the issue of obesity

I am not confident that any obesity intervention I attempt will make a difference

I do not feel sufficiently educated or competent in obesity intervention strategies

I do not know whom to refer patients in cases of obesity intervention

I am not comfortable in discussing obesity with my patients

I avoid bringing up the topic of obesity as I do not want to offend or jeopardize my relationship with my patients and/or their family members

As a healthcare provider, I am extremely frustrated with the low success rate in managing obesity

I feel that my patients will not be compliant and any obesity intervention efforts I attempt will have little impact, if any

I do not feel the need to address obesity issues with my patients unless they look or act sick

I fear that talking about obesity could do even more damage by leading my patient toward an eating disorder or other psychological problem

Challenges (1–5) 1 = Strongly disagree 5 = Strongly agree

Obesity intervention is not taught in my discipline’s curriculum before we enter practice

There is limited professional training in this area (e.g. continuing professional development)

Healthcare providers in my discipline are not adequately compensated for treating obesity

There is a lack of appropriate referral options (e.g. dietitians or other related professionals)

There is a lack of patient education materials regarding obesity to distribute to our patients

Healthcare providers in my discipline need more guidance toward raising a sensitive issue such as obesity with our patients.

Healthcare providers in my discipline need more guidance in motivational interviewing for behavior change related to obesity.