Test of an interprofessional collaborative practice model to improve obesity-related health outcomes in Michigan

The purpose of the study was to test the effectiveness of an interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) education program on clinicians' and students' knowledge and attitudes toward IPCP and to determine the effectiveness of an IPCP weight loss program in two nurse-managed centers. The study team used the Midwest Interprofessional Practice, Education, and Research Center (MIPERC) collaborative practice education program that consists of online learning modules followed by daily huddles and collaborative care planning. The obesity intervention program was implemented by faculty and staff practitioners and students in two clinics with very different patient populations (community residents and college students). Staff/faculty practitioners and students demonstrated statistically significant knowledge gains as a result of online learning modules (Introduction to IPE p < .05; Motivational Interviewing p < .001; Safety Behaviors p < .001; Team Dynamics p < .001). Small, but not statistically significant changes in attitudes toward IPCP were seen with both groups. At program completion, enrolled patients showed statistical significant (p < .001) weight losses and decreases in body mass indices. Other health outcomes showed no significant changes (blood pressure, prevalence of smoking, exercise frequency or duration p > .05). The study demonstrated the potential of an IPCP program to affect weight loss in two populations.