A passionate commitment to promoting weight-inclusive healthcare is at the heart of a new research project led by Tweed, Murwillumbah and Byron Nutrition and Dietetics Acting Head of Department Casey James.
Supported by the Health Education and Training Institute’s Rural Research Capacity Building Program (RRCBP), Casey’s project aims to create educational resources that empower clinicians across the District to engage in decision-making that respects and supports people of all body types.
“I have a long-standing passion for weight-inclusive practice and find most clinicians I speak with are very interested but don’t have the training and support to develop in this space,” Casey said.
"My research journey began last year, when hundreds of LHD staff completed a survey about weight and health."
Casey is now analysing the results to design an education package tailored to clinicians’ needs.
She plans to pilot and evaluate the package before it’s rolled out across the District.
“This initiative will enhance our ability to create safe, respectful healthcare environments where patients feel valued and actively participate in their health goals,” Casey said.
“We’re not just addressing potential biases, but proactively building a more supportive, evidence-based model of care that celebrates individual diversity and promotes optimal health outcomes.
“I’m so grateful to everyone who completed, shared or supported the Weight and Health survey last year. I’m looking forward to working with our dedicated staff to create a valuable resource for all of us.”