The association between parent-reported provider communication quality and child obesity status: Variation by parent obesity and child race/ethnicity

Objective To examine the association between healthcare provider communication quality and child obesity status, and the role of parent obesity and child race/ethnicity regarding this association. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional secondary data analysis with the 2011–2013 Medical Expenditures Panel Survey of parents with children ages 6–12 (n = 5390). We used multivariable logistic regression to examine the association of parent-reported healthcare provider communication quality (explaining well, listening carefully, showing respect, and spending enough time) with child obesity status, and effect modification by parent obesity and child race/ethnicity. Results Parents of obese children were more likely to report that their child's healthcare provider listened carefully (OR = 1.41, p = 0.002) and spent enough time (OR = 1.33, p = 0.022) than parents of non-obese children. Non-obese parents of obese children experienced better communication in the domains of listening carefully (p < 0.001) and spending enough time (p = 0.007). Parents of obese non-Hispanic Asian children and non-Hispanic Black children were more likely to report that providers explained things well (p = 0.043) and listened carefully (p = 0.012), respectively. Conclusion Parents of obese children experienced better communication if parents were non-obese or children were non-Hispanic Black or Asian. Practice implications Healthcare providers should ensure effective communication with obese parents of obese children.