Prior, F ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8244-522X, Coffey, M ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5837-5532, Robins, A and Cook, PA ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6435-8050 2018, 'Evaluation of the ‘Live Active’ exercise referral scheme : long term outcomes' , Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 15 (10) , pp. 146-147.
Introduction: Exercise referral schemes (ERSs) aim to increase the physical activity (PA) levels of people with chronic health conditions. To date, the efficacy of ERSs has been inconclusive, due to the variable nature of schemes and limited data on long-term outcomes. The aim of this current study was to evaluate the long-term (12 months) impact of participation in an ERS.
Methods: Secondary data analysis was conducted for participants referred between July 2015 and July 2017. ERS duration was 6 months, with a follow-up at week 52. The primary outcomes were stage of change (transtheoretical model), PA (IPAQ), sitting time (IPAQ), body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), generic health status (EQ-5D-3L and EQ-5D VAS), mental wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh mental well-being scale), smoking status, and alcohol consumption (frequency, units). Outcomes were analysed using appropriate statistical tests.
Results: In total 2104 people were referred to the ERS (117 waiting list, 515 participating, 623 completed (month 6), 471 dropped-out, 378 non-uptake). Of 623 who completed, 273 attended a week 52 appointment (further 20 declined, 98 lost to follow up, 2 died). Between weeks 1 and 52 there were significant improvements in the primary outcomes (p<0.05), with the exception of diastolic BP, smoking status, and frequency of alcohol consumption.
Conclusion: Referral to the ‘Live Active’ ERS improved PA, health and mental wellbeing in the long-term. Therefore, healthcare professionals should consider the referral of inactive persons with chronic health conditions to an ERS.