Can you see me? Participant experience of accessing a weight management programme via group videoconference to overcome barriers to engagement

Background Engagement with conventional weight management group programmes is low. Objective To understand participant experience of accessing an adapted programme via videoconference. Participants Adults with obesity (BMI >= 35kg/m(2)), referred to an NHS Dietetics service in Wales, were offered a group videoconference weight management programme as an optional alternative to in-person groups. Thirteen participants (mean age 48.5 +/- 20.2 years, 8 female) recruited to two videoconference groups were interviewed. Study design A Registered Dietitian delivered a behavioural programme using Skype for Business in 10 sessions over 6 months. Participants joined the groups from any Internet-connected device with a webcam. Participant perspectives were audiorecorded in one-to-one, semi-structured interviews. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed using self-determination theory as a theoretical framework. Results Ten themes were identified, three relating to service engagement and seven relating to behaviour change facilitation. Key themes in engagement included 'reduced burden', described as saving time and travel and 'reduced threat' as participants perceived joining a group from home as less daunting compared to attending in-person. Despite reporting some initial technical difficulties with establishing video and audio connection, participants described beneficial peer support although not physically with other group members. Conclusion Accessing a group weight management programme via videoconference may be the preferred option for some participants, overcoming some of the barriers to access to standard in-person programmes, particularly in rural areas. Participants are able to experience peer support via videoconference. During the COVID-19 pandemic, weight management programmes could utilize videoconference groups to continue to provide support.

Automated summary

This study explored the experience of adults with obesity accessing a weight management programme through videoconference. Participants reported that videoconference sessions saved time and reduced the perceived threat of joining group activities. Despite some initial technical difficulties, participants still felt the benefits of peer support through the videoconference format.