Implementing health coaching for people with long-term conditions: a scoping review

The rising global burden of chronic diseases has compelled healthcare practitioners to bolster their role in supporting individuals with long-term conditions in managing their health and well-being. Demand for health coaching continues to grow, but a limited body of knowledge makes it challenging to develop fit-for-purpose practitioner training.

This study aims to examine what is known about how to implement health coaching for people with long-term conditions.

Health databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed research articles. Data extraction was undertaken using a tool developed by the authors, and findings were charted, summarised and synthesised.

Seventy-six studies were included. Health coaching interventions span 17 different long-term conditions, are delivered by various providers (55% dedicated health coaches, 28% nurses) and occur primarily in community and public health settings (78%). Fundamental implementation guidance remains absent. With 69% lacking any named theoretical basis and 62% of studies failing to report training duration, practitioners receive inconsistent preparation for coaching patients with complex needs.

We found conceptual confusion and ambiguity across studies. Advancing the field will require identification of key theories, transferable core components and competency-based training standards. Themes of theorising, tailoring and training recur throughout this review. We offer a conceptual framework that synthesises concepts and bridges theory and practice, thus supporting practitioners to deliver person-centred coaching.