Utilizing Patient Reported Outcomes and Quality of Life Measures in the Management of Obesity

Abstract

BackgroundPatient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL). These tools can facilitate assessment of weight-related successes and challenges.ObjectiveImplement surveys to better understand individual experiences with obesity and explore factors that may be associated with HRQOL.MethodsPatients completed Obesity and Weight Loss Quality of Life Instrument (OWLQOL) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global-10 surveys. Three scores were calculated from survey results: global physical health (GPH), global mental health (GMH), and OWLQOL. The association between these scores and body mass index (BMI) was examined using multiple linear regression analyses.Results114 surveys were analyzed. GPH and OWLQOL scores were negatively associated with BMI. OWLQOL scores were higher in those who lost more than 10% body weight compared to those who lost less weight. OWLQOL scores for return patients were significantly higher than those for new patients.ConclusionsVarious factors may affect HRQOL. Higher BMI may adversely affect HRQOL, but weight loss greater than 10% and an ongoing clinical relationship may have a positive effect.Implications for NursingThese surveys can promote quality care, providing relevant information to enhance the clinical visit and offering another means to evaluate interventions over time.