When to discuss with patients
When should we talk with our patients about their weight? Consider these points and think about your current practice.
Passive
Only if patients ask for help.
Pros: avoids offense, patients want to change
Cons: not proactive or preventative
Reactive
When there are health complications.
Pros: less offensive as medical reason for discussion
Cons: not proactive or preventative
Active
Before there are health complications.
Pros: proactive and preventative
Cons: needs to be done sensitively to avoid offense
Consider your current approach to obesity and compare this with your approach to smoking cessation.
