Background:
Structured lifestyle modification programmes are widely used in the management of severe obesity, but comparisons between face-to-face and virtual delivery methods are limited. The requirement to pivot from face-to-face to virtual delivery of the Croí CLANN structured lifestyle modification programme for patients with severe obesity during the COVID crisis in 2020 provides an opportunity to compare the two methods of delivery. Outcomes from the pre-COVID in-person version of this programme have already been examined in previous studies. Before COVID-19, the programme was delivered face-to-face through group education, exercise sessions and behavioural support. Since the start of the pandemic, the same programme was adapted and delivered virtually through an online, clinician-led format. Although routine clinical and questionnaire data exist for both cohorts, no comparison has yet been made between the two. Understanding whether virtual delivery provides similar benefits is important for planning accessible and effective obesity services.
Aim:
The aim of this project is to analyse outcomes from the virtual post-COVID programme and compare them with outcomes from the pre-COVID in-person cohort.
Hypotheses and Objectives:
This study hypothesises that weight loss achieved through the virtual programme will be broadly comparable to outcomes observed in the established in-person programme. It will also assess whether programme completion, metabolic and cardiovascular improvements, fitness gains and changes in psychological wellbeing differ between delivery modes. A further objective is to identify baseline characteristics-such as age, mental-health scores and physical activity-that predict weight-loss success in each cohort.
Expected Outcomes:
This project is expected to determine whether virtual delivery maintains the health benefits previously demonstrated in face-to-face programmes. By comparing an already-studied in-person model with a newer, unexamined virtual model, the findings will help guide future decisions regarding the integration of virtual services into obesity-management pathways and support more accessible, flexible models of care.