Feasibility and acceptability of general practitioners using sit–stand desks: a feasibility trial

Objectives

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.

Design

A pre–post single-group experimental trial design.

Setting

General practices in England, UK.

Participants

42 GPs (working a minimum of five clinical sessions per week) and 301 patients (aged ≥18 years).

Interventions

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.

Main outcome measures

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.

Results

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.

Conclusions

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.

Trial registration number: ISRCTN76982860.