Investigating nutrition education by primary-care physicians: An integrative review

This integrative review investigates the nutrition education provided by primary-care physicians (PCP) through a thematic analysis of literature published between 2012 and 2018. Utilizing databases such as MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus, the review synthesizes findings from sixteen qualitative and quantitative studies, applying the COM-B model of behaviour (capability, motivation, opportunity) to elucidate the factors affecting PCPs’ provision of nutrition care. Findings indicate that PCPs generally perceive a deficiency in their nutritional capability. Their motivation to deliver nutrition care varies based on individual patient characteristics and personal factors. Furthermore, opportunities for providing such care are significantly shaped by influences from medical educators, mentors, and policies established by professional and governmental bodies. To enhance PCPs’ capability, motivation, and opportunity, the study advocates for the integration of nutrition education into undergraduate medical training and ongoing PCP training, aiming to foster confidence in delivering nutrition care as a critical element of disease prevention and management in modern medical practice. [NPID: education, COM-B, behavior, motivation, psychology, nutrition, primary-care physicians]

Year: 2020

Reference: Crowley, J., Ball, L., & Hiddink, G. J. (2020). Nutrition care by primary-care physicians: advancing our understanding using the COM-B framework. Public health nutrition, 23(1), 41–52. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1368980019003148