{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Feasibility and acceptability of general practitioners using sit-stand desks: a feasibility trial.
{Author}: Biddle GJH;Thomas N;Edwardson CL;Clemes SA;Daley AJ;
{Journal}: BMJ Open
{Volume}: 14
{Issue}: 6
{Year}: 2024 Jun 23
{Factor}: 3.006
{DOI}: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-084085
{Abstract}: <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>The primary aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of general practitioners (GPs) using sit-stand desks to facilitate standing during consultations. A further aim was to examine the views of patients about GPs standing for their consultations.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A pre-post single-group experimental trial design.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>General practices in England, UK.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>42 GPs (working a minimum of five clinical sessions per week) and 301 patients (aged ≥18 years).<BR><B>METHODS: </B>The intervention consisted of each GP having a sit-stand desk (Opløft Sit-Stand Platform) installed in their consultation room for 4 working weeks. Sit-stand desks allow users to switch, in a few seconds, between a sitting and standing position and vice versa, by adjusting the height of the desk.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>To test feasibility and acceptability, GPs reported their views about using sit-stand desks at work at baseline and follow-up. Sitting time and physical activity were also measured via accelerometer at baseline and follow-up. Patients who attended a consultation where their GP was standing were asked to complete an exit questionnaire about the perceived impact on the consultation.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Most GPs reported using their sit-stand desk daily (n=28, 75.7%). 16 GPs (44.4%) used their sit-stand desk during face-to-face consultations every day. Most GPs and patients did not view that GPs standing during face-to-face consultations impacted the doctor-patient relationship (GPs; 73.5%, patients; 83.7%). GPs' sitting time during work was 121 min per day lower (95% CI: -165 to -77.58) at follow-up compared with baseline.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Use of sit-stand desks is acceptable within general practice and may reduce sitting time in GPs. This may benefit GPs and help reduce sitting time in patients.<BR><B>BACKGROUND: </B>ISRCTN76982860.