Perceptions and Practices of Healthcare Professionals in Managing Pediatric Obesity: Insight from a Focus Group Interviews in South Korea.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVES

Pediatric obesity poses significant public health challenges and is associated with an increased risk of adult obesity. Healthcare professionals play an important role in providing patient-centered care; however, barriers to effective pediatric obesity management remain insufficiently explored in South Korea.

METHODS

Eleven healthcare professionals managing pediatric obesity participated in focus group interviews. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Four main themes emerged: (1) the current status of pediatric obesity management, (2) clinical experiences and outcomes, (3) awareness of governmental policies, and (4) areas needing improvement.

RESULTS

Participants described multiple barriers to pediatric obesity management, including limited clinical resources, time constraints, low awareness among patients and families, and perceived inadequacies in reimbursement policies. Participants also reported low treatment adherence and frequent dropout during follow-up care. Many participants reported limited awareness of governmental initiatives related to pediatric obesity management but expressed willingness to utilize such programs if they became more accessible and better integrated into clinical practice.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that pediatric obesity management in South Korea may be influenced by structural, financial, and sociocultural barriers. Participants emphasized the need for improved multidisciplinary collaboration, greater institutional support, and increased accessibility of obesity-related programs and resources. Further comparative and context-specific studies may help inform tailored approaches to pediatric obesity management.