Introduction
Meal replacement products (MRPs) have been in use for more than 50 years and there is a multitude of research proving their effectiveness. However, negative perceptions surrounding the use of meal replacement programs remain. Formal training may provide an opportunity to correct program misconceptions and improve uptake amongst health professionals. The aims were to identify if health professionals are using MRPs, if they have had formal training in their use and if training affects the likelihood of their use.
Methods
The survey contained a mixed method design to capture the use of MRPs and the occurrence of formal training. An 18 question survey was directed to healthcare professionals who worked in weight management across Australia. It was disseminated through professional associations, direct email and online social media platforms.
Results
Of the 241 responders, 175 (72%) reported the use of MRPs, of this 122 (70%) had formal training. Of the 66 (27%) who did not use MRPs, 18 (27%) had undergone formal training. Using a hierarchical multiple regression analysis a significant positive correlation between the use of MRPs and formal training (r = 0.39, p<0.00) was found. Health professionals are six times more likely to use MRPs if they had formal training; odds ratio 6.1 (95% CI 3.3 , 11.5).
135 responders stated where they obtained formal training, 42 responders provided more than one response; 76 (56.3%) during university lectures, 57 (42.2%) at a conference, workshop or webinar, 23 (17%) completed an Nestlé Optifast® accreditation course, 11 (8.1%) read Optifast® commercial promotional material, 9 (6.7%) had on the job experience and 1 (0.7%) used clinical practice guidelines.
Conclusion
Formal training is significantly correlated with the use of MRPs. Providing education during tertiary education or via professional continuing education may be an avenue to improve uptake and correct products misconceptions.