A Pilot Feasibility Study Exploring the Preliminary Effectiveness of an AI-Driven Virtual Human Intervention for General Practitioner Obesity Education and Communication-Skills Training.

Journal: Obesity science & practice
Published Date: Jul 8, 2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Rising global obesity rates demand effective weight management strategies from general practitioners (GPs). However, time constraints, training gaps, and low confidence often impede GPs' ability to conduct weight-based conversations. This pilot study assessed the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of an AI-driven Virtual Human (VH) obesity education and communication-skills training tool, specifically designed to address these challenges and enhance obesity education and communication-skills among GPs.

Authors

  • Leona Ryan
    School of Psychology University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Sean Coleman
    Health Innovation via Engineering Laboratory University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Triinu Zimmermann
    School of Psychology University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Rory Coyne
    School of Psychology University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Elizabeth Broadbent
  • Anne Browne
    Medicine College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Grainne O'Donoghue
    School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science University College Dublin Dublin Ireland.
  • Fiona Quigley
    School of Communication and Media Ulster University Belfast UK.
  • Hemendra Worlikar
    Health Innovation via Engineering Laboratory University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Cornelia Connolly
    School of Education College of Arts, Social Sciences, & Celtic Studies University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Michael Crotty
    Irish College for General Practitioners (ICGP) Dublin Ireland.
  • Susie Birney
    Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ICPO) Dublin Ireland.
  • Owen Conlan
    School of Computer Science and Statistics Trinity College Dublin Dublin Ireland.
  • Jane C Walsh
    School of Psychology University of Galway Galway Ireland.
  • Derek O'Keeffe
    Health Innovation via Engineering Laboratory University of Galway Galway Ireland.

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