Module one: Talking about obesity
This module explores the topic of starting the conversation about weight with patients living with obesity. It encourages you to reflect on and develop your communication around this sensitive topic.
The learning objectives for this module are:
- Reflect on your personal views and experience of obesity and weight management
- Consider when to broach the subject of obesity
- Understand the importance of asking for permission first
- Recall the principles of person-centred care and empowerment
- Identify psychological and emotional factors related to weight gain.
Module two: Assessing a person with obesity
This module discusses how to assess someone living with obesity. We will consider measurement, tests and how to screen for mental health disorders.
The learning objectives for this module are:
- Define obesity in terms of clinical criteria.
- List the causes of obesity.
- Describe the impact of environment and genetics on the increase in prevalence of obesity.
- Explain identification of eating disorders/mental health concerns and how to refer on and signpost for additional support.
- Recall how to assess the person living with obesity including:
o Which measurements should be taken and recorded.
o How to take measurements.
o What additional assessments may be required
Module three (Treating patients living with obesity) is in development and will be published later in 2026.
This course is suitable for physicians, GPs, nursing staff and other health care professionals that work face to face with patients.
Continuing professional development (CPD)
Each e-learning module is approved for 1 external CPD credit.