MON-730 Mitigating The Effects of Weight Bias in Clinical Practice: Enhancing Communication and Documentation Skills Among Medical Trainees

Abstract Disclosure: R. Mamtani: None. D. LaMarra: None. C. Maskart: None. Background: Weight bias is common in healthcare and can negatively impact patient-provider interactions, quality of care, and patient outcomes. In clinical practice, weight bias can be expressed through verbal communication and clinical documentation. Despite growing efforts to enhance obesity education in medical training, few interventions specifically address weight bias and communication skills. This project aimed to implement and evaluate a curriculum designed to educate medical trainees about weight bias, how to engage in respectful, non-stigmatizing discussions about weight with patients, and strategies to document clinical encounters with neutral, patient-centered language. Methods: A needs assessment, including a survey of standardized patients and a review of trainee course evaluations, was performed to guide curriculum design. Using these findings, an interactive workshop was developed using recorded standardized patient encounters and clinical documentation exercises. The workshop was delivered to internal medicine residents and endocrinology fellows. Post-curriculum surveys assessed self-reported comfort and confidence in communicating with patients about weight, and also assessed commitment to change by evaluating trainees’ intent to apply non-stigmatizing communication and documentation practices. Results: A total of 26 participants completed the post-curriculum survey to date, corresponding to a response rate of 93% (26/28). 96% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the curriculum increased their understanding of the impact of weight bias on patient care and outcomes. 96% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they felt more comfortable initiating respectful conversations about weight with patients. Similarly, 96% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they had improved confidence in reducing stigmatizing language in clinical documentation. 100% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they would apply the skills learned in their future practice.Among those reporting intended changes in their clinical practice, the most frequently highlighted behavioral changes included: asking permission before discussing weight and incorporating patient-preferred language in documentation. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that an interactive curriculum on weight bias and patient-centered communication is both feasible and effective. Participants reported increased awareness of weight bias, greater comfort in initiating discussions about weight, and increased confidence in reducing stigmatizing language. Qualitative analysis revealed motivation to integrate these skills into clinical practice. These findings highlight the importance of structured educational interventions in fostering more equitable clinic environments. Presentation: Monday, July 14, 2025