1.5 Intervention delivery methods

The science of effective methods for delivering interventions needs to be incorporated into pharmacy weight management services. Delivery through face-to-face consultations (in person or via video consultation) and telephone can all be effective.

Digital technology and wearable devices have the potential to enhance ‘in person’ interventions provided by the pharmacy team.  Support during and after any intervention is needed to prevent, or at least reduce, any weight regain.

People who are overweight or who have obesity experience considerable stigma and “fat shaming” in the media, from other people and, unfortunately, from some NHS staff. Treating people in a non-judgemental way, recognising that their lives are not straightforward and tailoring a weight management plan to the individual are paramount.

Behavioural science evidence shows that goal setting with small changes made gradually are more likely to be sustained.

Some people may prefer online support and pharmacies can already refer people with obesity to the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme (Box 3).

Regardless of which intervention has been used, an individual will need to keep up the behaviour changes they have made and it is inevitable that ‘relapse’ will sometimes happen. Recognising this and having a backup plan to get restarted is crucial.

New pathways to be developed by the NHS, potentially including pharmacies, are “expected to provide patients with access to essential behaviour change support, focusing on nutrition and physical activity, and where appropriate, psychological support to ensure overall well-being”.