We propose a clinical environment checklist to address the scarcity of instruments for assessing the accommodations of patients with obesity in outpatient clinics. We assessed ambulatory clinics and obtained feedback from clinic staff to formulate the following checklist identifying equipment deficiencies and offering solutions to improve care for patients with obesity.
Abstract
Objective
Individuals with obesity face unique challenges when visiting healthcare providers, including inadequate equipment. These negative care experiences, often exacerbated by weight stigma, frequently lead to mistrust and reluctance to seek future care. Currently, few instruments exist to ensure that an ambulatory clinic is welcoming to patients with obesity. The following clinical environment checklist was created with an aim to identify weaknesses in accommodating individuals of size.
Methods
A checklist of equipment considered ideal for the care of patients with obesity was developed through a comprehensive review of the literature and feedback from office staff. Eight ambulatory clinics within an urban Midwest setting were assessed, focusing on their accommodations for patients with obesity. Feedback from clinic staff was incorporated to further refine the checklist.
Results
Common equipment deficiencies included extra-large blood pressure cuffs, wheelchair-accessible scales, 2XL gowns, and adequate seat dimensions in the waiting area. Healthcare workers reported moral distress for their patients when unable to provide proper care due to these limitations. Newly constructed clinics exhibited better-equipped facilities for patients with obesity.
Conclusions
Many clinics lack proper equipment to accommodate patients with obesity, resulting in negative care experiences. This clinical environment checklist can identify problem areas and provide solutions to create more welcoming environments, encouraging future care-seeking behaviors.