Optimizing Lifestyle Before and After Surgery: A Qualitative Stakeholder Analysis Among Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in promoting lifestyle changes among patients with cancer or osteoarthritis by identifying risk factors and motivating engagement in lifestyle interventions. Prehabilitation, defined as the process of optimizing patients' physical and mental health before surgery, is increasingly recognized as an essential component of perioperative care. This study explores healthcare professionals' perspectives on implementing lifestyle interventions as part of prehabilitation programs in surgical care. This study aims to investigate the experiences, preferences, and perceptions of healthcare professionals regarding (1) the content of lifestyle interventions to support healthy behaviors and (2) the optimal organizational and social context for delivering these interventions. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with medical specialists, nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, and psychologists. The COM-B model guided the exploration of capability, opportunity, and motivation for behavior change. Thematic analysis identified key themes. Healthcare professionals (n = 25) emphasized the need for tailored lifestyle advice and social support integration. Barriers included limited time, insufficient training in communication techniques, and organizational constraints. Enablers of patient engagement were effective communication and involving loved ones. Multidisciplinary collaboration, centralized referral systems, and a lifestyle front office were proposed as solutions. Healthcare professionals emphasized personalized approaches to address socioeconomic and literacy barriers. To promote lifestyle interventions, healthcare professionals need communication training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and structured support systems. Addressing organizational constraints and integrating personalized, patient-centered approaches are essential to overcoming socioeconomic barriers and ensuring long-term adherence to a healthy lifestyle.