Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026
08:45
Assessment of Physical Activity Intensity with Accelerometers and Oxygen Consumption
Published on: June 20, 2025
593
Moderating healthcare costs through an assisted physical activity programme.
Emidia Vagnoni1, Giulia Rita Biavati1, Michele Felisatti2
1University of Ferrara, Department of Economics and Management, Ferrara, Italy.
The International Journal of Health Planning and Management
|August 4, 2018
Summary
Engaging in a structured exercise program for nine months led to reduced drug costs and improved health perception. This demonstrates the economic and quality-of-life benefits of physical activity interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Economics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Physical inactivity is a leading cause of death and a growing public health concern.
- Sedentary lifestyles contribute to economic burdens on healthcare systems.
- There is a need for effective healthcare programs promoting physical exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the relationship between moderate physical activity, pharmaceutical costs, and healthcare utilization.
- To evaluate the impact of a community-based exercise program on quality of life and economic sustainability for individuals in sheltered accommodation.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 150 patients.
- Participants were randomized into an intervention group (exercise program) and a control group.
- The intervention group was recruited from a specialized exercise center, while the control group was recruited from general practitioners.
Main Results:
- The exercise group showed a statistically significant reduction in average drug costs (p=0.039) at nine months.
- Participants in the exercise group reported a significantly better perception of their health status (p=0.0019).
- The exercise group also demonstrated a trend towards less frequent general practitioner visits (p=0.058).
Conclusions:
- Assisted physical activity through structured exercise programs yields positive outcomes.
- A nine-month exercise intervention can lead to reduced healthcare expenditure.
- Participating in an exercise program significantly enhances quality of life.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Healthcare Agencies II
1.1K
There are various healthcare agencies in the United States—some of which are managed by religious institutions and others by different government branches.
Parish nursing is a growing specialty nursing profession that focuses on holistic healthcare, health promotion, and illness prevention. It blends professional nursing practice with a health ministry, focusing on health and healing within the context of a Christian community. Parish nurses serve as health educators, referral sources,...
Parish nursing is a growing specialty nursing profession that focuses on holistic healthcare, health promotion, and illness prevention. It blends professional nursing practice with a health ministry, focusing on health and healing within the context of a Christian community. Parish nurses serve as health educators, referral sources,...
1.1K
01:11Secondary Healthcare System
2.1K
Secondary healthcare is offered by a specialist, generally in hospitals or clinics for patients referred by primary healthcare providers. It occurs when a person has an illness or injury that requires specific medical care. Secondary care is often referred to as acute care. Secondary care can range from uncomplicated care to repair a minor laceration or treat a strep throat infection to more complicated emergent care, such as treating a head injury sustained in an automobile accident. Whatever...
2.1K
01:21Tertiary Healthcare System
2.2K
Specialized care provided over an extended period is called tertiary care. Usually, a primary or secondary care physician will refer a patient to tertiary care. A patient's maximum physical and mental function is restored in tertiary care, which is caused due to the impact of a chronic illness or condition. Tertiary care aims to achieve the highest level of functioning possible while managing chronic illness. For example, a patient who falls and fractures their hip will need secondary care...
2.2K
01:18Healthcare Agencies I
1.2K
Healthcare agencies provide healthcare services to people. In the United States, voluntary agencies are often non-profit centers sponsored by donations, grants, or fundraisers. One such organization is Meals on Wheels, which provides meals to the elderly and homebound. The American Heart Association and the American Lung Association are other non-profit community organizations. Doctors and nurses are frequently active members of these organizations, which offer health checks and educational...
1.2K
01:20Integrated Healthcare System
2.4K
An integrated healthcare system (IHS) is a set of organizations that provides for or arranges to provide coordinated and continuous service to a defined population. The IHS takes responsibility for that particular population's health status and outcome, both clinically and fiscally. An integrated healthcare system is a well-organized, well-coordinated, and collaborative network. The integrated delivery system is a network that connects different healthcare providers to deliver organized,...
2.4K
01:30Primary Healthcare Services
2.2K
Primary care promotes wellness and prevents disease. This care includes health promotion, education, protection (such as immunizations), early disease screening, and environmental considerations. Settings providing this type of healthcare include physician offices, public health clinics, school nursing, and community health nursing.
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
2.2K