Recruiting

Virtual coaching and primary care for teen obesity treatment

Plain-English translation of NCT07246603 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated August 2026 · Translation generated August 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing a program called Virtual Housecalls that combines regular doctor visits with telehealth coaching sessions to help teens ages 12–15 with obesity. The study will compare this new approach to standard care to see if it helps teens lose weight and build healthier eating and exercise habits. Families would work with a behavior coach who uses items and spaces in their own home to make the treatment fit their real life.

Obesity is common in teens and can lead to serious health problems, but many teens don't get enough support to manage it in their regular doctor's office. This trial aims to find out whether adding virtual coaching from a trained behavior coach—meeting families where they live—helps teens lose weight and stick with healthier habits better than usual care.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 12 and 15 years old
you have been diagnosed with class 1 obesity (BMI at or above the 95th percentile but below 120% of the 95th percentile for your age)
you are receiving care at a participating clinic
you have access to a mobile device with a webcam and can receive text messages
you speak English or Spanish
a parent or legal guardian who lives with you is willing to participate

You likely don't qualify if…

you are currently participating in another weight loss program or taking anti-obesity medication at an unstable dose
you have had or are planning to have weight loss surgery
you have a serious eating disorder, psychiatric condition, or significant developmental delay that would make it hard to participate
you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the 12-month study
you have a chronic medical condition or take medication that significantly affects your weight, appetite, or ability to exercise

What participation looks like

If you join this trial, you'll be randomly assigned to either the Virtual Housecalls program or enhanced standard care. In the Virtual Housecalls group, you'd have in-person visits with your regular doctor every 3 months, plus 6 months of virtual sessions with a behavior coach (weekly for the first 3 months, then every 2 weeks), and you'd receive weekly exercise videos. The entire study lasts 12 months, with check-ins at 3, 6, and 12 months to measure your progress and track changes in weight, diet, and physical activity. The comparison group receives standard care plus extra education materials on healthy eating and exercise, delivered on the same schedule.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 30, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU Healthy Lifestyles Center, Henrico, Virginia