How to deliver high-quality obesity counseling in primary care using the 5As framework

Abstract

Objective:�Toreviewthecontentofthe�5Asofobesity� counselingforprimarycarephysiciansaswellas� strategiestoefficientlyaddressthe�5Asduringatypi- cal�20-minutevisit. •� Methods:�Reviewoftheliterature. •� Results:�Obesepatientsareevaluatedintheprimary� caresettingformultipleweight-relatedcomorbidities� andoftenseekhelpfromtheirprimarycareproviders� toloseweight.�Severalstudieshavesuggestedthat� physiciansandotherprovidersdonotadequately� counselobesepatientsabouttheirweightbecause� ofbarrierssuchaspoorreimbursement,� lackof� obesity-relatedcounselingskills,� andlackoftime.� The� 5As� (Assess,� Advise,� Agree,� Assist,� Arrange)� isanevidence-based,� behavior-changecounseling� frameworkendorsedbytheCentersforMedicareand� MedicaidServicesandtheUnitedStatesPreventive� ServicesTaskForce.� •� Conclusion: WiththerecentannouncementthatMedi- carewillnowcoverintensivebehavioralcounseling� forobesepatients,�moreprovidersmaybeinterested� ingainingthenecessaryskillstoprovidehigh-quality� weightmanagementcounseling.