Based on empathy, grounded in science: The essential role of health coaches

Behavior change isn't easy. Dealing with stress, making healthy food choices, getting enough exercise — I don't know anyone who doesn't struggle with at least one of these issues. People don't give up from a lack of desire to change, but rather, because they approach behavior change alone and in ways that aren't productive or that don't lead to lasting results.

That's why I became a health coach — to offer patients reinforcement, hope, and trust. With evidence-based interventions and rigorous training, coaches are uniquely qualified to support patients on their healthcare journey, helping them change behaviors so that they can live healthier lives. 

As health and wellness become increasingly accessible to the average adult through digital health, many healthcare startups are relying on health coaches as an integral part of the virtual care team. They act as an indispensable human link between the patient and the software, healing the body and mind in ways that augment technology and ensure its success through personal connections and proven interventions.

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Based on empathy, grounded in science 
Health coaches are certified through national organizations and trained in behavior modification techniques that help people adjust their lifestyles to meet goals and navigate complex feelings around body image, as well as a wide range of other behaviors that impede success.

While the foundation of coaching is based on compassion and empathy, coaching is grounded in science and evidence-based interventions. Coaches are trained in psychological theories that they use to help their patients explore their own thoughts and make better decisions. With various evidence-based counseling techniques — motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, to name a few — health coaches can effectively guide their patients toward success. 

Behavior change science is constantly evolving, so it's important for health coaches to take a growth mindset and be committed to continued study. Behavior change coaching entails building solid relationships through open and nonjudgmental communication, strengthening patients' confidence in themselves, and providing reinforcement and a sense of community. 

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Multiple studies have demonstrated that the rigorous training health coaches receive does improve patient outcomes for an assortment of specific conditions, including managing chronic disease. For instance, a study examining the impact health coaches had on elderly patients enrolled in a digital health diabetes program found that the added support and expertise encouraged more engagement with the program and improved weight and health outcomes.

Behavior change theory is crucial to pain management in chronic musculoskeletal conditions, a  leading cause of disability in the U.S. Poor treatment adherence in physical therapy is associated with psychological factors such as low self-efficacy, depression, anxiety, helplessness, poor social support, and a greater number of perceived barriers to exercise. Nonadherence to exercise programs due to such barriers is as high as 50%, which can lead to worse clinical outcomes. Health coaches address psychological barriers to adherence by supporting patients and teaching them ways to cope with chronic pain, anxiety and depression. Health coaches can be as effective as therapists at helping people recover from symptoms of depression when clinical-level care is not needed.

The rise of the health coach
Overwhelmed by the pandemic, and with nurses burning out in droves and a shortage of licensed therapists and mental health professionals, healthcare organizations are turning to health and wellness coaches for the added benefits they bring to the team and to the patient. Coaches can fill the gaps where nurses and licensed mental health professionals are in short supply. 

Even better clinical outcomes and patient experiences are possible when a coach and clinician work together to support a patient. A coach can ensure patients are engaged with clinically-guided interventions, helping to increase adherence and recovery. 

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Not only do health coaches support improved health and well-being, but they can also save health plans and employers money. Though the cost savings in digital health are still under research, health coaching in general has been shown to significantly reduce total outpatient health care costs by $412 per person per month for high-risk patients.

The recent release of new reimbursement codes, which allow certain coaching services to be covered by health insurance, provides further evidence that the value of coaching is recognized in the industry.

Regardless of how effective a digital health program is at improving health outcomes in theory, it won't matter if the patients don't use it or adhere to the intervention's guidelines. Teaching resilience and empowerment helps patients navigate difficulties and stay on track with their health program. Coaches don't diagnose, treat, or prescribe, but we do help prevent, promote, and heal. It's what modern-day medicine is missing and we're here to fill the gap.