A pilot feasibility study exploring the preliminary effectiveness of an AI-driven Virtual Human intervention for General Practitioner obesity education and communication- skills training

Background: Rising global obesity rates demand effective weight management strategies from general practitioners (GPs). However, time constraints, training gaps, and low confidence often impede GPs’ ability to conduct weight-based conversations. This pilot study assessed the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of an AI-driven Virtual Human (VH) obesity education and communication skills training tool, specifically designed to address these challenges and improve obesity education and communication skills among GPs.Methods: A pilot feasibility study with a pre-post survey design evaluated the VH tool's impact on knowledge, self-efficacy, empathy towards patients with obesity, and confidence in clinical consultations. Participant perceptions, trust, and intention to use the VH tool were explored. Paired-samples t-tests were conducted to evaluate within-group mean differences. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate feasibility and acceptability.Results: A total of 22 GPs were recruited. Following the intervention, significant improvements were observed in knowledge (p = .006), self-efficacy (p = .001), and combined empathy and confidence scores (p = .002). Participants reported positive perceptions, high trust in the VH, and strong intention to implement the learned strategies. Participant attrition resulted in six participants failing to complete post-intervention measures.Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrates the potential of an AI-driven VH tool to enhance GP obesity education and communication skills. The observed improvements in key outcomes support the potential of VH technology in medical education on obesity. Future research is needed, with a focus on larger, controlled studies to validate the findings and explore long-term adoption.