Impact of Pharmacist Involvement in Health Literacy for Patients With Obesity

Abstract

Patients with low health literacy are at risk for comorbidities, including obesity. Pharmacists offer a unique position to improve health literacy amongst all patients, including those with obesity. The primary aim of this study was to assess change in health literacy using the HELIA assessment pre and post pharmacist intervention. A single center, prospective, pre-post cohort study was conducted at an outpatient adult primary care office from November 21, 2024, through April 15, 2025. Obese adult patients who were consulted to pharmacy care were eligible for inclusion. Pre and post raw HELIA scores were assessed approximately 4 weeks apart to assess health literacy. A third visit was optional for further measurements of weight. These appointments were completed under a preexisting collaborative practice allowing pharmacists to manage medications and labs. The primary outcome was change in pre and post raw HELIA score. Secondary outcomes include changes in weight (kg) and others focused on both health literacy and weight loss agents. The outcomes were analyzed using the Wilcoxon-Signed rank test. Twenty-two patients were included initially. Nineteen patients completed both visits. The primary outcome resulted in a significant increase of median raw HELIA scores of 137 at Visit 1 to 148 at Visit 2 (P = 0.0004). Patients also showed a significant decrease in their median weight from Visit 1 of 109.9 kg to 108.2 kg at Visit 2 (P = 0.0056). Pharmacist led obesity visits significantly increased health literacy scores and decreased weights between Visit 1 and Visit 2.