Influence of weight etiology information and trainee characteristics on Physician-trainees' clinical and interpersonal communication

Abstract

Objective: This analysis explores the effects of relaying information about the genetic and behavioral causes of obesity (vs. control) on physician trainees' verbal communication behavior with a virtual patient with obesity. Moderation by physician trainees' gender and BMI was also assessed.

Methods: 119 physician trainees' verbal responses were recorded and coded using a close-ended content analytic approach.

Results: Physician trainees in the behavioral and genetic information conditions were more likely to discuss weight (behavioral: AOR = 5.40; genetic: AOR = 6.58,) and provide lifestyle counseling (behavioral: AOR = 10.92; genetic: AOR = 3.50). Those in the behavioral condition were more likely to make assumptions about the patient's lifestyle behavior (AOR = 5.53) and use stigmatizing language (AOR = 4.69). Heavier physician trainees in the genetic condition had shorter interactions (β = -0.53, p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Emphasizing the genetic causes of overweight offers a potential avenue for encouraging clinical communication with patients with obesity, without also increasing prejudice and bias. Additional efforts may be needed to reap the benefits of genetic information for providers with higher weight.

Practice implications: For providers, considering genetic factors underlying patient body weight and obesity risk may serve to reduce stigmatizing communication with patients.

Keywords: Healthcare communication; Medical students; Weight management; Weight stigma.