| Abstract: | Little is known about current PNP practices and perceived barriers regarding the assessment and management of childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity. Available research, however, has suggested that recommended guidelines are not being fully implemented and adhered to ([Bauer, 2002], [Cabana et al., 1999] and [Cook et al., 2005]), suggesting that provider practice behavior skills need to be strengthened. Continuing education offerings and conference forums might be used to provide the most up-to-date information about new practice techniques and provide participants the opportunity to practice those new skills. These and other opportunities (such as Web-based programs and frequently updated Web sites) may offer information to assist providers in overcoming frequently encountered barriers (e.g., billing codes frequently accepted by third-party payers and methods to track patient outcomes following treatment sessions) to decrease the sense of futility when working with overweight children and their families. Multiple strategies will be needed to address the increased prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity and the growing prevalence of associated co-morbid health conditions occurring in the child population. Pediatric health care providers have frequent contact with many children and families and thus are in a unique position to affect child health at the individual or family level. Additionally, through active involvement in various professional and community organizations, child health care providers can provide accurate information regarding the increasing prevalence of child overweight and obesity to parents and families, which may affect parental attitudes and recognition of this national health dilemma. |
