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Crozier A, Graves LE, George KP, Richardson D, Naylor L, Green DJ, Rosenberg M, Jones H. A multi-method exploration of a cardiac rehabilitation service delivered by registered Clinical Exercise Physiologists in the UK: key learnings for current and new services. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:127. [PMID: 38849904 PMCID: PMC11162017 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00907-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac rehabilitation has been identified as having the most homogenous clinical exercise service structure in the United Kingdom (UK), but inconsistencies are evident in staff roles and qualifications within and across services. The recognition of Clinical Exercise Physiologists (CEPs) as a registered health professional in 2021 in the UK, provides a potential solution to standardise the cardiac rehabilitation workforce. This case study examined, in a purposefully selected cardiac exercise service that employed registered CEPs, (i) how staff knowledge, skills and competencies contribute to the provision of the service, (ii) how these components assist in creating effective service teams, and (iii) the existing challenges from staff and patient perspectives. METHODS A multi-method qualitative approach (inc., semi-structured interviews, observations, field notes and researcher reflections) was employed with the researcher immersed for 12-weeks within the service. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used as an overarching guide for data collection. Data derived from registered CEPs (n = 5), clinical nurse specialists (n = 2), dietitians (n = 1), service managers/leads (n = 2) and patients (n = 7) were thematically analysed. RESULTS Registered CEPs delivered innovative exercise prescription based on their training, continued professional development (CPD), academic qualifications and involvement in research studies as part of the service. Exposure to a wide multidisciplinary team (MDT) allowed skill and competency transfer in areas such as clinical assessments. Developing an effective behaviour change strategy was challenging with delivery of lifestyle information more effective during less formal conversations compared to timetabled education sessions. CONCLUSIONS Registered CEPs have the specialist knowledge and skills to undertake and implement the latest evidence-based exercise prescription in a cardiac rehabilitation setting. An MDT service structure enables a more effective team upskilling through shared peer experiences, observations and collaborative working between healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Crozier
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Lee E Graves
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Keith P George
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - David Richardson
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, North Wales, UK
| | - Louise Naylor
- School of Human Science (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Daniel J Green
- School of Human Science (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Michael Rosenberg
- School of Human Science (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Helen Jones
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK.
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Crozier A, Watson PM, Graves LE, George KP, Richardson D, Naylor L, Green DJ, Rosenberg M, Jones H. Insights and recommendations into service model structure, staff roles and qualifications in a UK cancer specific clinical exercise service: a multi-method qualitative study. Disabil Rehabil 2024; 46:2535-2547. [PMID: 37341512 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2225879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Clinical exercise delivery in the United Kingdom is disparate in terms of service structure, staff roles and qualifications, therefore it is difficult to evaluate and compare across services. Our aim was to explore, in a purposely selected cancer exercise service that was recognised as effective; (i) how staff knowledge, skills and competencies contribute to the provision of the service, (ii) how these components assist in creating effective services, and (iii) to identify existing challenges from staff and service user perspectives. METHODS The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used as an overarching guide to review the Prehab4Cancer service. Exercise specialists and service user perspectives were explored using a multi-method approach (online semi-structured interviews, online focus group and in-person observation) and data triangulation. RESULTS Exercise specialists were educated to a minimum of undergraduate degree level with extensive cancer-specific knowledge and skills, equivalent to that of a Registration Council for Exercise Physiologist (RCCP) Clinical Exercise Physiologist. Workplace experience was essential for exercise specialist development in behaviour change and communications skills. CONCLUSIONS Staff should be educated to a level comparable with the standards for registered RCCP Clinical Exercise Physiologists, which includes workplace experience to develop knowledge, skills and competencies in real-world settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Crozier
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Paula M Watson
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lee E Graves
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Keith P George
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - David Richardson
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, North Wales, UK
| | - Louise Naylor
- School of Human Science (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Daniel J Green
- School of Human Science (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Michael Rosenberg
- School of Human Science (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Helen Jones
- Research institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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Fominienė VB, Fominaitė M, Sipavičienė S. Physical Activity Knowledge and Personal Habits with Recommendations for Patients: Self-Assessment by Primary Care Physicians. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1131. [PMID: 38891205 PMCID: PMC11172234 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary care physicians (PCPs) should be active and reliable promoters of physical activity (PA), but there is no strong evidence that their knowledge and personal habits contribute to this. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of PA recommendations provided by PCPs to patients in terms of their self-assessed PA knowledge and personal habits. This study used a cross-sectional design and data were collected through a self-reported online questionnaire. The study sample consisted of 202 PCPs from a large Lithuanian city, Kaunas, of which 122 were females (60.4%) and 80 were males (39.6%). The data were analyzed using SPSS version 29 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) for Windows. The findings show that the frequency of recommendations related to providing PA to patients is statistically significantly dependent on PCP health-friendly or partially favorable PA habits, their self-assessed level of knowledge about physical activity, and their self-assessed competence related to providing PA recommendations to patients, but this is not statistically dependent on objectively assessed level of knowledge related to PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vilija Bitė Fominienė
- Department of Sport and Tourism Management, Lithuanian Sports University, Sporto Str. 6, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Martirija Fominaitė
- Faculty of Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, A. Mickeviciaus Str. 9, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Saulė Sipavičienė
- Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation, Lithuanian Sports University, Sporto Str. 6, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania;
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Taylor KA, De Vivo M, Mills H, Hurst P, Draper S, Foad A. Embedding Physical Activity Guidance During Pregnancy and in Postpartum Care: 'This Mum Moves' Enhances Professional Practice of Midwives and Health Visitors. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024; 69:101-109. [PMID: 37485766 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The benefits of physical activity during pregnancy and after childbirth are well established, yet many health care professionals do not feel well equipped to provide physical activity guidance to these populations. As such, the objectives of this study were to explore the immediate and longer term effects of training on health care professionals' ability to provide physical activity guidance to pregnant women and new mothers (mums). METHODS Midwives and health visitors from 5 locations in the United Kingdom were provided with training on the Chief Medical Officers' physical activity guidelines for pregnancy and after childbirth (n = 393). Midwives and health visitors attended training to become This Mum Moves Ambassadors, then disseminated education to colleagues through a cascade training model. Changes in knowledge, confidence, and professional practice were assessed by survey before and immediately after training (n = 247), and follow-up surveys were completed 3 (n = 35) and 6 (n = 34) months posttraining. RESULTS At all posttraining time points, health care professionals reported a significant increase in their confidence to communicate about physical activity (P < .001). The reported frequency of having conversations about physical activity increased significantly 3 and 6 months following training compared with baseline (pregnant women, P = .017; new mums, P = .005). There were changes in the types of advice and resources offered by health care professionals and an overall increase in health care professionals' own reported physical activity levels. DISCUSSION The This Mum Moves cascade approach to delivering training in physical activity guidelines improved reported knowledge, confidence and professional practice of midwives and health visitors, both immediately following and 3 and 6 months after training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Ann Taylor
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Marlize De Vivo
- Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Hayley Mills
- Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Phil Hurst
- Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Stacey Draper
- Centre for Sport Physical Activity and Education Research, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Abby Foad
- Centre for Sport Physical Activity and Education Research, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom
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Silva CS, Godinho C, Encantado J, Rodrigues B, Carraça EV, Teixeira PJ, Silva MN. Implementation determinants of physical activity interventions in primary health care settings using the TICD framework: a systematic review. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1082. [PMID: 37821932 PMCID: PMC10568782 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09881-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Translation into practice of effective physical activity interventions in primary care is difficult, due to a complex interaction of implementation determinants. We aimed to identify implementation barriers and facilitators of four primary care interventions: physical activity assessment, counselling, prescription, and referral. METHODS A systematic review of qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods studies published since 2016 was conducted. The "Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases" (TICD) framework was adapted to extract and synthesize barriers and facilitators. RESULTS Sixty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Barriers (n = 56) and facilitators (n = 55) were identified across seven domains, related to characteristics of the intervention, individual factors of the implementers and receivers, organizational factors, and political and social determinants. The five most frequently reported determinants were: professionals' knowledge and skills; intervention feasibility/compatibility with primary health care routine; interventions' cost and financial incentives; tools and materials; and professionals' cognitions and attitudes. "Social, political and legal factors" domain was the least reported. Physical activity counselling, prescription, and referral were influenced by determinants belonging to all the seven domains. CONCLUSION The implementation of physical activity interventions in primary care is influenced by a broader range of determinants. Barriers and facilitators related with health professionals, intervention characteristics, and available resources were the most frequently reported. A deep understanding of the local context, with particularly emphasis on these determinants, should be considered when preparing an intervention implementation, in order to contribute for designing tailored implementation strategies and optimize the interventions' effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Santos Silva
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
- Programa Nacional Para a Promoção da Atividade Física, Direção-Geral da Saúde, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Cristina Godinho
- Programa Nacional Para a Promoção da Atividade Física, Direção-Geral da Saúde, Lisboa, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jorge Encantado
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruno Rodrigues
- CIAFEL, Faculdade de Desporto da Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eliana V Carraça
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física, Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pedro J Teixeira
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marlene Nunes Silva
- Programa Nacional Para a Promoção da Atividade Física, Direção-Geral da Saúde, Lisboa, Portugal
- CIDEFES, Centro de Investigação em Desporto, Educação Física, Exercício e Saúde, Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa, Portugal
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Woodhead G, Sivaramakrishnan D, Baker G. Promoting physical activity to patients: a scoping review of the perceptions of doctors in the United Kingdom. Syst Rev 2023; 12:104. [PMID: 37355661 PMCID: PMC10290366 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02245-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The physician-patient encounter presents an ideal opportunity for physical activity (PA) promotion. This review aims to (i) explore the breadth and depth of existing literature investigating doctors' perceptions of PA promotion in the United Kingdom (UK) and (ii) identify factors influencing the extent to which doctors engage in PA promotion during patient interactions. METHODS A five-stage scoping review methodology and the PRISMA-ScR guidance were followed: Stage 1-research questions specified; Stage 2-relevant studies identified by searching five electronic databases and manual screening of references; Stage 3-studies screened using Covidence™; Stage 4-study data extracted and charted; and Stage 5-findings from included studies were analysed, summarised and reported using (i) descriptive numerical analysis to provide insight into study characteristics and (ii) narrative summary of the evidence categorised by factors that influence doctors' engagement with PA promotion. RESULTS In total, 16,961 studies were screened. Nineteen studies were included in the review with most conducted in primary care focusing on the perceptions of general practitioners. Seven influencing factors were identified: knowledge and training, personal interest and PA level, time, resources, confidence, the perceived role of the doctor and patient relevance. CONCLUSION This review provides new evidence that historical barriers and influencing factors have a persisting impact on the ability and willingness of UK doctors to engage with PA promotion with patients. Previous efforts to address these factors would appear to have had limited success. Further intervention efforts are required to ensure more widespread and effective PA promotion to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Woodhead
- Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Divya Sivaramakrishnan
- Scottish Collaboration for Public Health Research and Policy, School of Health in Social Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Graham Baker
- Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, Moray House School of Education & Sport, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
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GPs' perspectives regarding their sedentary behaviour and physical activity: a qualitative interview study. BJGP Open 2022; 6:BJGPO.2022.0008. [PMID: 35273006 PMCID: PMC9680741 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2022.0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background General practice is a highly sedentary occupation, with many GPs spending more than 10.5 hours sitting each workday. This excessive sedentary behaviour and lack of physical activity (PA) is potentially detrimental to the health of GPs, as well as their ability to counsel patients regarding sedentary behaviour and PA. There is a lack of prior research examining the perspectives of GPs regarding their sedentary behaviour and PA. Aim To explore GPs’ perspectives regarding their sedentary behaviour and PA. Design & setting A qualitative interview study of GPs in Northern Ireland. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 13 GPs who had previously taken part in a study to objectively measure their levels of sedentary behaviour and PA. Interview transcripts were analysed using deductive thematic analysis. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was used to facilitate identification of barriers and enablers affecting the ability of GPs to increase their PA. Results Key themes were categorised within six theoretical domains (environmental context and resources, social professional role and identity, goals, social influences, knowledge, and intentions) with sub-themes within each domain. Conclusion Most GPs are unhappy with their current levels of sedentary behaviour and PA, and are concerned with how this is affecting their health. Numerous barriers and facilitators were identified affecting the ability of GPs to increase their PA, including working environment, and personal and professional responsibilities, among others. Addressing these could improve the health of GPs and their ability to counsel patients regarding sedentary behaviour and PA.
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Abu-Omar K, Weissenfels A, Mino E, Naber I, Klamroth S, Geidl W, Pfeifer K. Coproduction to improve preventive health services-experiences from Germany. Health Promot Int 2021; 36:ii107-ii113. [PMID: 34905607 PMCID: PMC8672924 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daab162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the beneficial impact of regular physical activity (PA) on
non-communicable diseases, the number of countries integrating exercise referral
schemes (ERSs) into their healthcare systems is growing. Owing to the
limitations of existing PA promotion concepts in Germany’s healthcare
system, efforts are currently being made towards developing a nationwide
referral pathway. A research group at the Friedrich-Alexander-University
Erlangen-Nürnberg is coordinating these efforts within a project funded
by the Federal Ministry of Health. The aim is to develop, implement and evaluate
a regional-level ERS that has the potential to be scaled up across Germany in
the event of its demonstrated effectiveness. The project is based on an adapted
Cooperative Planning approach requiring interaction between the academic sector
and different actors of the healthcare sector. The present commentary reflects
on challenges faced in the early stages of the co-production process. Besides
the development of an adequate co-production methodology, it critically
discusses stakeholder participation, knowledge gaps and actors’
willingness to take responsibility. In addition, although patients are
represented by dedicated organizations, their perspective cannot be adequately
captured using a co-production approach. Despite the joint development of an
ERS, there remain important questions regarding the appropriateness of the
co-production approach in a healthcare setting. Regular physical activity (PA) reduces one’s risk of developing various
diseases and also plays a favourable role in managing symptoms and preventing
further complications. Nationally and internationally, there exist different
concepts on how to increase PA in the population at large. The
Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg is currently working on
a project that focuses on promoting PA in primary care. This project involves
collaboration among various actors in the German healthcare system, such as
healthcare insurances, representatives of physicians, patients and exercise
specialists, who represent different interests and are experts in their fields
of knowledge. During this process, various barriers have come to light, which
yield important lessons for further studies. For example, there are differences
in actors’ levels of knowledge of the healthcare system and their
willingness to take responsibility and initiative in the collaborative process.
This article should give an impression of the joint development of exercise
referral schemes, show the strengths and weaknesses and encourage exchanges of
similar experiences of co-production processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Abu-Omar
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anja Weissenfels
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eriselda Mino
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Inga Naber
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sarah Klamroth
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Geidl
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klaus Pfeifer
- Department of Sport Science and Sport, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Gebbertstraße 123b, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
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Exploration of Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing Best Practice in Exercise Medicine in Primary Pediatric Care-Pediatrician Perspectives. Pediatr Exerc Sci 2021; 33:162-169. [PMID: 34167088 DOI: 10.1123/pes.2020-0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the known health benefits of physical activity (PA), few primary care pediatricians discuss, evaluate, or prescribe PA for children. The goal of this study was to examine pediatricians' thoughts and practices related to child PA and the perceived facilitators and barriers to implementing PA evaluation and prescription in pediatric primary care clinics. METHODS The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used to explore implementation barriers and facilitators. A mixed-method design combined questionnaires and focus groups with 27 pediatricians. RESULTS Despite the pediatricians' beliefs that PA is important for patients, there was wide practice variability in their approaches to discussing PA. Several perceived barriers to implementing PA evaluation and prescription were identified, including lack of knowledge and training, managing time for PA with multiple demands, the need for a team approach and simple PA tools and resources, support for patient tailoring of PA messaging, and a need for PA best practice champions. CONCLUSION The identified barriers to implementing evidence in PA suggest several directions for improvement, including a care-team approach; quick, inexpensive, and simple PA tools; community PA partnerships; PA training in medical education; evidence-based strategies; and PA directories for families. These efforts could facilitate the implementation of PA best practices in pediatrics.
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Oselinsky K, Duncan CG, Martinez HE, Graham DJ. Veterinary-Prescribed Physical Activity: Feasibility and Acceptability among Veterinary Staff and Dog Owners. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052339. [PMID: 33673547 PMCID: PMC7967723 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Physical inactivity remains a global epidemic leading to an estimated 5 million preventable deaths per year. Although there exist numerous public-health campaigns aimed at increasing physical activity (PA), a potentially fruitful but underexplored avenue to promote both human and animal health is veterinary-prescribed PA programs. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility and acceptability of incorporating veterinary-prescribed PA programming into a diverse array of clinic settings. Participants (n = 722 veterinary-clinic staff (VS); n = 1028 dog owners (DOs)) completed an online survey assessing: (a) the perceived importance of PA for promoting health and preventing disease, (b) willingness to participate in a veterinary-prescribed PA program, and (c) potential benefits and barriers of such a program. Both groups of participants indicated that PA is important for both human and animal health (97% and 98% of VS and 92% and 93% of DOs said PA is very or extremely important for animal and human health, respectively). Additionally, most participants in both groups expressed an interest in participating in a veterinary-prescribed PA program in the future, with only 11% of DOs and 10% of VS saying they were not interested. Benefits and barriers of this type of intervention for both practitioners and patients were also identified. Incorporating veterinary-prescribed PA programming into veterinary clinics seems to be acceptable to both DOs and VS. Additionally, many VS believe such programming would be feasible at their clinics; thus, pursuing such programs appears to be a promising avenue for promoting human and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Oselinsky
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, 1876 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Colleen G. Duncan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, 1619 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Heather E. Martinez
- Council of State and Territory Epidemiologists, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 4300 Cherry Creek S Dr, Denver, CO 80246, USA;
| | - Dan J. Graham
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, 1876 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
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