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Kori Kostka Lichtfuss,1 Beatriz Franco-Arellano,1 Jennifer Brady,2 and JoAnne Arcand1;
1Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON L1G 0C5, Canada, 2School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, B4P 2R6

Registered Dietitians (RDs) often use non-weight focused practice approaches (NWFAs) when working with higher weight clients. Broadly, NWFAs reject weight loss as an indicator of health with a view to reducing weight stigma and promoting long-term, sustainable behaviour changes. However, little is known about the barriers and facilitators RDs experience in implementing NWFAs.

To describe the barriers and facilitators experienced by RDs related to the implementation of NWFAs.

A cross-sectional, national online survey of Canadian RDs who work with higher weight clients. Between-group analyses were conducted to determine the differences in barriers/facilitators among RDs. Results: Overall 383 (82% white; 95% women) respondents completed the survey. Barriers more commonly reported by those who have not yet implemented NWFAs compared to those who have implemented NWFAs included: not having sufficient knowledge; NWFAs not fitting within treatment approaches of the clinical area; and NWFAs being difficult to implement. RDs who were implementing NWFAs reported that the main barrier to doing so was that clients were previously told to lose weight. The facilitating factors that supported NWFAs included: CPGs, publications, and educational materials; Dietitians of Canada support; and undergraduate and practicum training.

Lack of knowledge and expectations of RDs to focus on weight were the most significant barriers to implementing NWFAs in practice. More education related to NWFAs is important to increasing successful implementation of NWFAs.

Understanding the barriers and facilitators of implementing NWFAs is important to facilitating RD’s implementation of NWFAs in practice, which may reduce weight stigma. (Funding: Internal)

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