Preferences on how to measure and discuss health related quality of life within integrated care for children with obesity

Abstract

Background Childhood obesity can affect physical as well as psychosocial wellbeing. Therefore, childhood obesity care aims to improve all dimensions of health related quality of life (HRQoL). HRQoL can be measured with the generic questionnaire PedsQL4.0 and the weight-specific IWQOL-Kids. In the Netherlands, HRQoL assessment is conducted by the coordinating professional (CP). The aim of this qualitative study was to examine how and when to implement the measurement and discussion of HRQoL using the PedsQL4.0 and IWQOL-Kids within the integrated care for children with obesity in the Netherlands. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fourteen CPs, in which the following was discussed: a) familiarity and attributions with regard to the assessment of HRQoL; b) wishes and needs with regard to the usage of the questionnaires; c) its practical incorporation. Results Interviews revealed that most CPs gained insight into the HRQoL by talking with families. One CP used the PedsQL4.0, the remaining CPs were unfamiliar with the two questionnaires. Even though some barriers, for instance a lack of time, might hinder the implementation of the PedsQL4.0 and IWQOL-Kids, all participants think the usage of either one or both questionnaires would have additional value to the support and care for children with obesity. There was no consensus about the questionnaire of preference. Conclusions When the right preconditions are met, HRQoL questionnaires have the potential to support CPs in improving the care for children with obesity, tailored to each individual child.

Health-related quality of life in children under treatment for overweight, obesity or severe obesity: a cross-sectional study in the Netherlands

“…The IWQOL-Kids is also suggested to be better at detecting differences in HRQOL after a lifestyle intervention [ 14 ]. Accordingly, information obtained by this questionnaire can be very useful when setting up, adjusting and evaluating a treatment plan, although the exact timing and choice of measure to assess this PROM needs to be tailored to each patient [ 37 ].…”

Health-related Quality of Life in Children under Treatment for Overweight, Obesity or Severe Obesity: a cross-sectional study in the Netherlands

“…The IWQOL is also better at detecting differences in HRQOL after a lifestyle intervention [11]. Information obtained by this questionnaire can be very useful when setting up and adjusting a treatment plan, although the exact timing of HRQOL assessment needs to be tailored to each patient [33].…”

Scoping literature review and focus groups with healthcare professionals on psychosocial and lifestyle assessments for childhood obesity care

“…Developing practical tools for HCPs based on the results of the scoping review and focus groups of this study that corresponds to the national and local contexts within which they provide obesity care might also be relevant for other integrated care contexts, including: (1) examples of questions concerning psychosocial and lifestyle factors; (2) inspiration for obtaining deeper insight into psychosocial and lifestyle factors (e.g. health related quality of life) [55]; (3) suggestions concerning how to talk about psychosocial and lifestyle factors in a positive and structured manner; and (4) guidance for what HCPs should do after the assessment. The involvement of HCPs as well as children and parents in the development of appropriate tools could increase the likelihood of successful implementation.…”