Question

A healthcare coordinator is coordinating care for a patient who is obese and has type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is noted in the patient's progress notes that the patient is unwilling to lose weight, despite having discussed the health benefits. The healthcare coordinator does research on ethical and legal issues regarding patients who are obese. How should the healthcare coordinator proceed after analyzing evidence and research about ethical and legal constraints?

A--Inform the patient that further care cannot be provided until the patient expresses a desire to lose weight.
B--Send a written request to transfer care of the patient to another healthcare facility.
C--Schedule the patient with a dietician to counsel the patient about eating habits.
D--Contact the patient to discuss how the care plan can meet the patient's health goals.

Answer 1

The healthcare coordinator should schedule the patient with a registered dietitian and contact the patient to discuss individualized health goals, respecting the patient's autonomy and preferences while providing evidence-based care.

Step-by-step explanation:

After analyzing evidence and research pertaining to ethical and legal constraints, the healthcare coordinator should schedule the patient with a registered dietitian to counsel the patient about eating habits. This approach aligns with the evidence-based behavioral recommendations for weight loss and diabetes management. Furthermore, it respects the patient's autonomy while still providing them with resources that can assist them in achieving a healthier weight. Contacting the patient to discuss how the care plan can meet the patient's health goals is also an appropriate step, emphasizing the patient-centered care model that considers the patient's preferences and goals. It is not ethical to deny care or request a transfer of care based on the patient's current unwillingness to lose weight.