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Alice Grady - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines
Implementation Science, 2021Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, John WiggersAbstract:Background Despite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. Methods The prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool and online resources. Effectiveness measures included mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money. Results Over the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of − $482 (95% UI − $859, − $56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated. Conclusion Compared to usual practice, web-based programmes may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines.
2020Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, Megan Finch, John WiggersAbstract:Abstract BackgroundDespite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. MethodsThe prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool, and online resources. Effectiveness measures included: mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost–effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals, were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money.ResultsOver the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of -$482 (95% UI -$859, -$56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated.ConclusionCompared to usual practice, web-based programs may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial RegistrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Menu Planning practices in early childhood education and care factors associated with Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines
Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Kirsty Seward, Meghan Finch, Jannah Jones, Sze Lin YoongAbstract:ISSUE ADDRESSED Despite recommendations, early childhood education and care services do not plan Menus in accordance with sector dietary guidelines. This study aimed to examine the following among Australian long day care services: (a) Menu Planning practices; (b) prevalence of Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines; and (c) Menu Planning practices associated with higher Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines. METHODS Long day care services within Hunter New England, NSW participated in a pen and paper survey assessing Menu Planning practices and socio-demographic and service characteristics. Two-week Menus were assessed for compliance with sector dietary guidelines, based on the number of servings of food groups and discretionary foods provided per child, per day. RESULTS Staff from 72 services completed the survey and 69 provided their Menu. Results indicated the service cook was fully responsible for Planning the Menu in 43% of services, and 57% had received written support to assist with Menu Planning. Service Menus were compliant with an average of 0.68 out of six food groups and discretionary foods. In poisson regression models, a shorter Menu cycle length (P = .04) and the receipt of training opportunities to support Menu Planning (P < .01) were significantly associated with higher Menu compliance. CONCLUSIONS Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines is low among participating long day care services. SO WHAT?: The implementation of practices such as shortening of the Menu cycle and the provision of training opportunities may assist in the Planning of Menus that are more compliant with dietary guidelines in this setting.
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effectiveness of a web based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines randomized controlled trial
Journal of Medical Internet Research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby Orourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P<.001), vegetables (P=.03), dairy (P=.03), and meat (P=.003), and reduced their servings of discretionary foods (P=.02) compared with control group at 3 months. This difference was maintained for fruit (P=.03) and discretionary foods (P=.003) at 12 months. Intervention childcare service staff logged into the Web-based program an average of 40.4 (SD 31.8) times and rated the program as highly acceptable. CONCLUSIONS Although improvements in childcare service overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines were not statistically significant, findings indicate that a Web-based Menu Planning intervention can improve the servings for some healthy food groups and reduce the provision of discretionary foods. Future research exploring the effectiveness of differing strategies in improving the implementation of dietary guidelines in childcare services is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR): 16000974404; http://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12616000974404.aspx.
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Effectiveness of a Web-Based Menu-Planning Intervention to Improve Childcare Service Compliance With Dietary Guidelines: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of medical Internet research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby O'rourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P
John Wiggers - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines
Implementation Science, 2021Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, John WiggersAbstract:Background Despite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. Methods The prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool and online resources. Effectiveness measures included mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money. Results Over the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of − $482 (95% UI − $859, − $56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated. Conclusion Compared to usual practice, web-based programmes may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines.
2020Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, Megan Finch, John WiggersAbstract:Abstract BackgroundDespite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. MethodsThe prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool, and online resources. Effectiveness measures included: mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost–effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals, were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money.ResultsOver the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of -$482 (95% UI -$859, -$56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated.ConclusionCompared to usual practice, web-based programs may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial RegistrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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effectiveness of a web based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines randomized controlled trial
Journal of Medical Internet Research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby Orourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P<.001), vegetables (P=.03), dairy (P=.03), and meat (P=.003), and reduced their servings of discretionary foods (P=.02) compared with control group at 3 months. This difference was maintained for fruit (P=.03) and discretionary foods (P=.003) at 12 months. Intervention childcare service staff logged into the Web-based program an average of 40.4 (SD 31.8) times and rated the program as highly acceptable. CONCLUSIONS Although improvements in childcare service overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines were not statistically significant, findings indicate that a Web-based Menu Planning intervention can improve the servings for some healthy food groups and reduce the provision of discretionary foods. Future research exploring the effectiveness of differing strategies in improving the implementation of dietary guidelines in childcare services is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR): 16000974404; http://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12616000974404.aspx.
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Effectiveness of a Web-Based Menu-Planning Intervention to Improve Childcare Service Compliance With Dietary Guidelines: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of medical Internet research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby O'rourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P
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A randomised controlled trial of an online Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence to dietary guidelines: a study protocol
BMJ open, 2017Co-Authors: Sze Lin Yoong, Alice Grady, Meghan Finch, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, Andrew Searles, David Salajan, Ruby O'rourke, Jaqueline DalyAbstract:Introduction The implementation of dietary guidelines in childcare settings is recommended to improve child public health nutrition. However, foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with guidelines. The primary aim of the trial is to assess the effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines regarding food provision to children in care. Methods and analysis A parallel group randomised controlled trial will be undertaken with 54 childcare services that provide food to children within New South Wales, Australia. Services will be randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The experimental group will receive access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool and online resources. To support uptake of the web program, services will be provided with training and follow-up support. The primary outcome will be the number of food groups, out of 6 (vegetables, fruit, breads and cereals, meat, dairy and ‘discretionary’), on the Menu that meet dietary guidelines (Caring for Children) across a 1-week Menu at 12-month follow-up, assessed via Menu review by dietitians or nutritionists blinded to group allocation. A nested evaluation of child dietary intake in care and child body mass index will be undertaken in up to 35 randomly selected childcare services and up to 420 children aged approximately 3–6 years. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval has been provided by Hunter New England and University of Newcastle Human Research Ethics Committees. This research will provide high-quality evidence regarding the impact of a web-based Menu Planning intervention in facilitating the translation of dietary guidelines into childcare services. Trial findings will be disseminated widely through national and international peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Trial registration Prospectively registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12616000974404.
Meghan Finch - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines
Implementation Science, 2021Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, John WiggersAbstract:Background Despite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. Methods The prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool and online resources. Effectiveness measures included mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money. Results Over the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of − $482 (95% UI − $859, − $56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated. Conclusion Compared to usual practice, web-based programmes may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Menu Planning practices in early childhood education and care factors associated with Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines
Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Kirsty Seward, Meghan Finch, Jannah Jones, Sze Lin YoongAbstract:ISSUE ADDRESSED Despite recommendations, early childhood education and care services do not plan Menus in accordance with sector dietary guidelines. This study aimed to examine the following among Australian long day care services: (a) Menu Planning practices; (b) prevalence of Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines; and (c) Menu Planning practices associated with higher Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines. METHODS Long day care services within Hunter New England, NSW participated in a pen and paper survey assessing Menu Planning practices and socio-demographic and service characteristics. Two-week Menus were assessed for compliance with sector dietary guidelines, based on the number of servings of food groups and discretionary foods provided per child, per day. RESULTS Staff from 72 services completed the survey and 69 provided their Menu. Results indicated the service cook was fully responsible for Planning the Menu in 43% of services, and 57% had received written support to assist with Menu Planning. Service Menus were compliant with an average of 0.68 out of six food groups and discretionary foods. In poisson regression models, a shorter Menu cycle length (P = .04) and the receipt of training opportunities to support Menu Planning (P < .01) were significantly associated with higher Menu compliance. CONCLUSIONS Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines is low among participating long day care services. SO WHAT?: The implementation of practices such as shortening of the Menu cycle and the provision of training opportunities may assist in the Planning of Menus that are more compliant with dietary guidelines in this setting.
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effectiveness of a web based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines randomized controlled trial
Journal of Medical Internet Research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby Orourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P<.001), vegetables (P=.03), dairy (P=.03), and meat (P=.003), and reduced their servings of discretionary foods (P=.02) compared with control group at 3 months. This difference was maintained for fruit (P=.03) and discretionary foods (P=.003) at 12 months. Intervention childcare service staff logged into the Web-based program an average of 40.4 (SD 31.8) times and rated the program as highly acceptable. CONCLUSIONS Although improvements in childcare service overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines were not statistically significant, findings indicate that a Web-based Menu Planning intervention can improve the servings for some healthy food groups and reduce the provision of discretionary foods. Future research exploring the effectiveness of differing strategies in improving the implementation of dietary guidelines in childcare services is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR): 16000974404; http://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12616000974404.aspx.
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Effectiveness of a Web-Based Menu-Planning Intervention to Improve Childcare Service Compliance With Dietary Guidelines: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of medical Internet research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby O'rourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P
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Menu Planning practices in early childhood education and care – factors associated with Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines
Health promotion journal of Australia : official journal of Australian Association of Health Promotion Professionals, 2019Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Kirsty Seward, Meghan Finch, Jannah Jones, Sze Lin YoongAbstract:ISSUE ADDRESSED Despite recommendations, early childhood education and care services do not plan Menus in accordance with sector dietary guidelines. This study aimed to examine the following among Australian long day care services: (a) Menu Planning practices; (b) prevalence of Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines; and (c) Menu Planning practices associated with higher Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines. METHODS Long day care services within Hunter New England, NSW participated in a pen and paper survey assessing Menu Planning practices and socio-demographic and service characteristics. Two-week Menus were assessed for compliance with sector dietary guidelines, based on the number of servings of food groups and discretionary foods provided per child, per day. RESULTS Staff from 72 services completed the survey and 69 provided their Menu. Results indicated the service cook was fully responsible for Planning the Menu in 43% of services, and 57% had received written support to assist with Menu Planning. Service Menus were compliant with an average of 0.68 out of six food groups and discretionary foods. In poisson regression models, a shorter Menu cycle length (P = .04) and the receipt of training opportunities to support Menu Planning (P
Rebecca Wyse - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines
Implementation Science, 2021Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, John WiggersAbstract:Background Despite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. Methods The prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool and online resources. Effectiveness measures included mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money. Results Over the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of − $482 (95% UI − $859, − $56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated. Conclusion Compared to usual practice, web-based programmes may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines.
2020Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, Megan Finch, John WiggersAbstract:Abstract BackgroundDespite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. MethodsThe prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool, and online resources. Effectiveness measures included: mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost–effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals, were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money.ResultsOver the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of -$482 (95% UI -$859, -$56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated.ConclusionCompared to usual practice, web-based programs may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial RegistrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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effectiveness of a web based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines randomized controlled trial
Journal of Medical Internet Research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby Orourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P<.001), vegetables (P=.03), dairy (P=.03), and meat (P=.003), and reduced their servings of discretionary foods (P=.02) compared with control group at 3 months. This difference was maintained for fruit (P=.03) and discretionary foods (P=.003) at 12 months. Intervention childcare service staff logged into the Web-based program an average of 40.4 (SD 31.8) times and rated the program as highly acceptable. CONCLUSIONS Although improvements in childcare service overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines were not statistically significant, findings indicate that a Web-based Menu Planning intervention can improve the servings for some healthy food groups and reduce the provision of discretionary foods. Future research exploring the effectiveness of differing strategies in improving the implementation of dietary guidelines in childcare services is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR): 16000974404; http://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12616000974404.aspx.
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Effectiveness of a Web-Based Menu-Planning Intervention to Improve Childcare Service Compliance With Dietary Guidelines: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of medical Internet research, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, John Wiggers, Victoria M. Flood, David Salajan, Ruby O'rourke, Rebecca WyseAbstract:BACKGROUND Foods provided in childcare services are not consistent with dietary guideline recommendations. Web-based systems offer unique opportunities to support the implementation of such guidelines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Web-based Menu Planning intervention in increasing the mean number of food groups on childcare service Menus that comply with dietary guidelines. Secondary aims were to assess the impact of the intervention on the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for (1) all food groups; (2) individual food groups; and (3) mean servings of individual food groups. Childcare service use and acceptability of the Web-based program were also assessed. METHODS A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was undertaken with 54 childcare services in New South Wales, Australia. Services were randomized to a 12-month intervention or usual care control. Intervention services received access to a Web-based Menu Planning program linked to their usual childcare management software system. Childcare service compliance with dietary guidelines and servings of food groups were assessed at baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS No significant differences in the mean number of food groups compliant with dietary guidelines and the proportion of service Menus compliant with recommendations for all food groups, or for individual food groups, were found at 3- or 12-month follow-up between the intervention and control groups. Intervention service Menus provided significantly more servings of fruit (P
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines
Implementation Science, 2021Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Meghan Finch, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, John WiggersAbstract:Background Despite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. Methods The prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool and online resources. Effectiveness measures included mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money. Results Over the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of − $482 (95% UI − $859, − $56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated. Conclusion Compared to usual practice, web-based programmes may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Economic evaluation of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to improve childcare service adherence with dietary guidelines.
2020Co-Authors: Penny Reeves, Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Sze Lin Yoong, Luke Wolfenden, Kim Edmunds, Zoe Szewczyk, Rebecca Wyse, Megan Finch, John WiggersAbstract:Abstract BackgroundDespite the known benefits of healthy eating in childhood, few Australian childcare services provide food that is consistent with dietary guidelines. The effectiveness of a web-based Menu Planning intervention to increase childcare service provision of healthy foods and decrease provision of discretionary foods in long day-care services in Australia was assessed in a randomised controlled trial. Here we consider the costs, consequences, cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the intervention using data collected within the trial. MethodsThe prospective trial-based economic evaluation involved 54 childcare services across New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Services were randomised to a 12-month intervention or usual care. The intervention involved access to a web-based Menu Planning and decision support tool, and online resources. Effectiveness measures included: mean number of food groups, overall Menu and individual food group compliance with dietary guidelines, and mean servings of food groups at 12 months. Costs (reported in $AUD, 2017/18) were evaluated from both health sector and societal perspectives. The direct cost to support uptake of the intervention was calculated, as were costs to each childcare service. The incremental cost of the intervention was calculated as the net difference in the cost to undertake Menu Planning and review plus the direct cost of the intervention. Incremental cost–effectiveness ratios (ICERs) including uncertainty intervals, were estimated for differences in costs and effects between intervention and control groups. A relative value index was calculated to determine overall value for money.ResultsOver the 12 months of the trial, we calculated a difference in cost between usual practice and intervention groups of -$482 (95% UI -$859, -$56). While the measured increase in Menu and food group compliance within the trial did not reach statistical significance, there were significant improvements in mean servings of fruit and discretionary food, represented in the cost-consequence analysis. The calculated relative value index of 1.1 suggests that the intervention returns acceptable value for money for the outcomes generated.ConclusionCompared to usual practice, web-based programs may offer an efficient and sustainable alternative for childcare services to improve the provision of healthy foods to children in their care. Trial RegistrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000974404
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Menu Planning practices in early childhood education and care factors associated with Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines
Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 2020Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Kirsty Seward, Meghan Finch, Jannah Jones, Sze Lin YoongAbstract:ISSUE ADDRESSED Despite recommendations, early childhood education and care services do not plan Menus in accordance with sector dietary guidelines. This study aimed to examine the following among Australian long day care services: (a) Menu Planning practices; (b) prevalence of Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines; and (c) Menu Planning practices associated with higher Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines. METHODS Long day care services within Hunter New England, NSW participated in a pen and paper survey assessing Menu Planning practices and socio-demographic and service characteristics. Two-week Menus were assessed for compliance with sector dietary guidelines, based on the number of servings of food groups and discretionary foods provided per child, per day. RESULTS Staff from 72 services completed the survey and 69 provided their Menu. Results indicated the service cook was fully responsible for Planning the Menu in 43% of services, and 57% had received written support to assist with Menu Planning. Service Menus were compliant with an average of 0.68 out of six food groups and discretionary foods. In poisson regression models, a shorter Menu cycle length (P = .04) and the receipt of training opportunities to support Menu Planning (P < .01) were significantly associated with higher Menu compliance. CONCLUSIONS Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines is low among participating long day care services. SO WHAT?: The implementation of practices such as shortening of the Menu cycle and the provision of training opportunities may assist in the Planning of Menus that are more compliant with dietary guidelines in this setting.
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Menu Planning practices in early childhood education and care – factors associated with Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines
Health promotion journal of Australia : official journal of Australian Association of Health Promotion Professionals, 2019Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Fiona Stacey, Kirsty Seward, Meghan Finch, Jannah Jones, Sze Lin YoongAbstract:ISSUE ADDRESSED Despite recommendations, early childhood education and care services do not plan Menus in accordance with sector dietary guidelines. This study aimed to examine the following among Australian long day care services: (a) Menu Planning practices; (b) prevalence of Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines; and (c) Menu Planning practices associated with higher Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines. METHODS Long day care services within Hunter New England, NSW participated in a pen and paper survey assessing Menu Planning practices and socio-demographic and service characteristics. Two-week Menus were assessed for compliance with sector dietary guidelines, based on the number of servings of food groups and discretionary foods provided per child, per day. RESULTS Staff from 72 services completed the survey and 69 provided their Menu. Results indicated the service cook was fully responsible for Planning the Menu in 43% of services, and 57% had received written support to assist with Menu Planning. Service Menus were compliant with an average of 0.68 out of six food groups and discretionary foods. In poisson regression models, a shorter Menu cycle length (P = .04) and the receipt of training opportunities to support Menu Planning (P
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Effectiveness of a dissemination strategy on the uptake of an online Menu Planning program: A controlled trial.
Health promotion journal of Australia : official journal of Australian Association of Health Promotion Professionals, 2018Co-Authors: Alice Grady, Luke Wolfenden, Chris Rissel, Sue Green, Kathryn Reilly, Sze Lin YoongAbstract:Online systems offer opportunities to provide effective, ongoing support to childcare services to implement dietary guidelines. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a dissemination strategy on childcare service: (i) adoption; and (ii) use of an online Menu Planning program designed to increase compliance with dietary guidelines. A nonrandomised controlled trial was conducted with long day care services across Australia. All services received an email invitation to access an online evidence-based Menu Planning program. Services in the intervention also received training, telephone contact and provision of a portable computer tablet to encourage program adoption and use. Outcomes were assessed at the 6-month follow-up using analytics data recorded by the online program. Outcomes included the proportion of services having accessed the program (adoption) and the proportion of services with a current Menu entered in the program (use as intended). Twenty-seven interventions and 19 control services took part. At the 6-month follow-up, 100% vs 58% of services had adopted the online Menu Planning program (OR: 14.67, 95% CI: 2.43-infinity; P < 0.01) and 41% vs 5% of services had a current Menu entered in the program (OR: 9.99, 95% CI: 1.01-534.57; P < 0.01) in the intervention and control arms respectively. This study highlights the need for strategies to support adoption and use of an online Menu Planning program in childcare services if the potential benefits of such a program are to be achieved. Future research should explore the effectiveness of differing strategies to increase adoption and use of online programs at scale. SO WHAT?: Strategies to support childcare service uptake and use of online programs are required in order for the potential public health benefits of such technologies to be realised. © 2018 Australian Health Promotion Association.