Waist Circumference Measurement Diffusion in Primary Care

This sequential explanatory mixed-methods study, informed by the Diffusion of Innovations theory, aimed to gain a deeper understanding of waist circumference measurement rejection in primary care. A convenience sample of primary-care practices generated the quantitative sample. A purposeful selection of providers, sampled from the quantitative sample, comprised the qualitative sample. Waist circumference measurement did not diffuse into practice. Provider characteristics did not correlate with measurement use. Barriers of practice norms, time, provider discomfort, and perceived patient discomfort influenced rejection. To promote adoption of waist circumference measurement, findings that refute barriers need to reach providers via reliable, convenient means.