Uptake and participation in physical activity referral schemes in the UK: an investigation of patients referred with mental health problems

Issues Ment Health Nurs. 2008 Oct;29(10):1088-97. doi: 10.1080/01612840802319837.

Abstract

The study compared outcomes of uptake, attendance, and completion between two patient groups (mental health, n = 134 and physical health, n = 2767) in a physical activity referral scheme in the UK during 2000 to 2003. Despite similar rates for the physical health and mental health groups for initial progression (94% vs. 90%), referral uptake (60% vs. 69%; p < 0.001) and programme completion (22% vs. 34%; p < 0.001) were significantly lower in the mental health referrals. In conclusion, physical activity referral schemes appear to be less well suited to the needs of the mental health patient. Further research is recommended.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Community Health Nursing
  • Exercise Therapy / organization & administration*
  • Family Practice
  • Female
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders* / psychology
  • Mental Disorders* / rehabilitation
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivation
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Nursing Methodology Research
  • Patient Compliance* / psychology
  • Patient Compliance* / statistics & numerical data
  • Patient Selection
  • Physical Therapy Specialty
  • Referral and Consultation / organization & administration*
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United Kingdom