Sex differences in the influence of weight bias internalization on preferences for telehealth utilization among people with obesity.

backgroundPeople with obesity (PWO) often experience weight bias, resulting in weight bias internalization (WBI) which may impact their preferences for healthcare engagement. We explored sex differences in self-reported WBI and its influence on telehealth utilization preferences among racially/ethnically diverse PWO who have completed metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS).

methodsA qualitative approach was used. The impact of WBI on telehealth utilization preferences was assessed through in-depth interviews. Interviews were thematically analyzed to explore sex differences in preferences between telehealth and in-person visits.

resultsQualitative analysis (n = 24, 54% female) identified themes such as quality of care, convenience, discrimination in healthcare settings, and shame. WBI was not a primary determinant of how to receive care for both men and women. Their perception of the quality of care they would receive from either telehealth, or in-person visits was the main consideration.

conclusionThis qualitative research suggests WBI may be common among men and women who have completed MBS, but WBI was not the main factor considered when PWO made decisions about using telehealth or in-person care. Future studies should further explore how WBI impacts healthcare engagement and preferences among PWO who have completed MBS across diverse settings.