Utility of BMIQ, a novel web-based weight management programme, at an academic weight management centre.

Background: BMIQ is a customizable online platform used to deliver evidence-based behavioural management that complements office visits with healthcare providers. BMIQ offers educational materials, meal plans and tracking tools for patients, and remote monitoring and guidance for physicians. In this retrospective chart review, the implementation and utility of BMIQ was assessed in patients treated at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center (CWCC) at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Methods: The study included all new patients seen at the CWCC between 9/1/2016 and 6/1/2017 who enrolled in BMIQ. Use of BMIQ was assessed by the number of enrolled patients who activated their account and viewed BMIQ sessions. Demographics, comorbidities, medications, and weight change during 6-month follow-up were obtained from the electronic medical records.

Results: Of the 495 new patients enrolled in BMIQ, 217 met the inclusion criteria of 6-month follow-up. The mean age was 50.2 (±13.1) and 72% (n = 157) were female. Sixty-four percent (n = 138) activated their BMIQ account and viewed greater than or equal to 1 BMIQ session. The average number of physician and registered dietitian visits were 3.5 (±1.1) and 1.9 (±1.6), respectively. The average number of weight loss medications was 1.6 with metformin being the most commonly prescribed (76%). Mean weight loss at 6 months was 7.0 ± 5.9%; 59% achieved greater than or equal to 5% weight loss and 28% achieved greater than or equal to 10% weight loss. The total number of physician visits and weight-loss pharmacotherapies used were significant predictors of patients achieving greater than or equal to 5% weight loss. Regular BMIQ usage was an independent predictor of patients achieving both greater than or equal to 5% and greater than or equal to 10% weight loss at 6 months.

Conclusion: Clinically significant weight loss was achieved in the majority of patients with limited in-clinic physician and registered dietitian follow-up in combination with BMIQ. This retrospective study demonstrates the utility of online behavioural therapy as part of a medical weight management intervention.