Outpatient multidisciplinary interventions for the treatment of pediatric obesity 2009: practical suggestions from lessons learned.

Abstract A growing body of literature supports the use of outpatient multidisciplinary interventions as an effective strategy for the treatment of obesity among children and adolescents. New findings support this approach for at-risk/increased risk populations, such as ethnic minority youth. Emerging ideas in the literature on multidisciplinary interventions for pediatric obesity include the use of developmentally sensitive interventions, alternative settings for treatment delivery, and use of meal replacements as an alternative dietary intervention. This review examines pediatric outpatient weight control interventions delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including a summary of key findings, new ideas in the field, and practical suggestions regarding what to look for in a high-quality outpatient program.