FAQs

The Blueprint for Change is a comprehensive framework designed to guide and improve obesity healthcare systems. It provides strategic questions to support system actors in assessing readiness to implement the chronic disease framework as applied for obesity for good governance, data and practical care pathways application to address the complex challenges associated with diagnosis, screening, acute treatment of and long-term management of obesity.

Born out of a need to align health systems with the policy and regulatory realities surrounding chronic obesity care, this framework ensures that interventions are not only effective but also compliant with current regulations and best practices.

The Blueprint for Change is designed for a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, health system managers, economic actors, healthcare professionals, researchers, advocacy groups, and anyone involved in health system reform and operationalisation.

Initially, it should be leveraged by reform requesters and their teams to evaluate their system’s readiness and current state.

The Blueprint for Change is crucial as it addresses the multifaceted nature of obesity, integrating evidence-based practices, innovative methodologies, and collaborative approaches to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of obesity healthcare systems. It aims to improve health outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by obesity.

The key objectives of the Blueprint for Change include:

• To provide system changemakers clarity on their system’s status at the start of the process and to identify gaps which can impact their ability to create and sustain health systems which can convincingly address obesity in adults as they do for other major chronic diseases.
• To provide a structured approach for managing obesity at various levels of healthcare.
• To promote the adoption of best practices and innovative solutions in obesity care.
• To encourage stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
• To ensure data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement in obesity care practices.

The Blueprint for Change was developed through a collaborative process involving experts from various fields including health­ – care, research, policy, and technology. It was informed by a thorough review of existing literature, stakeholder consultations, and real-world evidence.

Several methodologies were employed in creating the Blueprint for Change, including systematic reviews, stake­ holder interviews, and Delphi panels. These methodologies ensured a comprehensive and robust foundation for the Blueprint.

The main themes covered in the Blueprint for Change include:

• Prevention and early intervention strategies.
• Integrated care models and multidisciplinary approaches.
• Use of data and technology in obesity care.
• Engagement and empowerment of patients and communities.
• Policy advocacy and alignment with international health frameworks.

The Blueprint aligns with international health policies and frameworks by incorporating guidelines and recommendations from leading health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission. It aims to harmonize obesity care practices globally and support the achievement of universal health coverage.

Mechanisms for updating the Blueprint include regular review cycles, incorporation of new evidence and best practices, and stakeholder consultations. A dedicated steering committee should oversee the update process to ensure the Blueprint remains relevant and effective.

The effectiveness of the Blueprint is measured using key performance indicators (KPIs), outcome evaluations, and impact assessments. Regular monitoring and evaluation processes ensure that the Blueprint achieves its objectives and contributes to improved obesity care.