Exercise on Prescription, established in June 2003, provides a G.P. referral pathway for inactive patients with established forms of disease. The health professional identifies the patient who complies with the referral criteria and recommends them for a tailored, supervised physical activity programme. Conditions include: Diabetes, Coronary Heart Disease, Depression, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Obesity. Exercise on Prescription is an intervention which is appropriate to the individual, developed with community involvement, focusing on how to overcome barriers to participation. The referral is just the start to laying foundations to behaviour change, incorporating continued support, personal instruction and education. This scheme is in partnership with South Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust.
The Exercise on Prescription Team consists of professionals with appropriate competencies, who through a formal process of screening, monitoring, re-assessment and evaluation provide a safe activity intervention. Community settings are used for physical activity options.
The referral patient is the centre of the process. The physical activity prescribed is safe and applicable ot the clients health status and agreed with the patient. It must ultimately match the patients desires and realistic expectations to regular participation in regular physical activity. Since 2003 nearly 3000 patients have been referred from 28 G.P. Practices, including Phase 4 Cardiac Rehabilitation patients from North Bristol NHS Trust.
For further information on the scheme, please contact Clare Flemming, Exercise on Prescription Co-ordinator.