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The Scottish Borders general practitioners exercise referral scheme (GPERS).
1Borders Primary Care NHS Trust, Melrose.
Health Bulletin
|April 1, 2003
Summary
The Scottish Borders General Practitioners Exercise Referral Scheme (GPERS) successfully encouraged long-term physical activity in participants. Many individuals remained active for years, reporting high satisfaction with the program.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
- Health Promotion
Background:
- General Practitioners Exercise Referral Schemes (GPERS) aim to increase physical activity.
- Long-term adherence to exercise referral programs is often a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of the Scottish Borders General Practitioners Exercise Referral Scheme (GPERS).
- To assess participant activity levels and satisfaction three to five years post-referral.
Main Methods:
- A semi-structured postal questionnaire was distributed to participants referred between 1994-1996.
- The survey targeted 324 participants known to be alive and residing in the area.
Main Results:
- A 40% response rate was achieved.
- Over 40% of respondents remained active at least twice weekly.
- Nearly two-thirds reported increased activity levels, with 90% satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Unique features of GPERS likely contribute to its success.
- The scheme facilitates sustained, independent physical activity for 3-5 years post-referral.
- This sustained activity has significant implications for health improvement.