Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme Evaluation

The UK Chief Medical Officer's say that if physical activity were a drug "we would refer to it as a miracle cure, due to the great many illnesses it can prevent and help treat." This highlights that engaging in regular physical activity provides an array of physical and mental health benefits across the life-course. Physical activity is an essential part of leading a healthy life and the health benefits of regular physical activity are compelling. The Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme (MHPP) is a national programme, led by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) in partnership with Sport England, to support healthcare professionals to increase their knowledge, skills and confidence to integrate physical activity within routine care for the prevention and management of long-term conditions.

Phase 2 of the MHPP reached approximately 157,400 professionals. Evaluation of the programme found:

• Following training, many healthcare professionals reported improvements in their knowledge, skills and confidence to promote physical activity to patients, which has led to a greater capability and motivation to enter into conversations.

• Qualitative evidence shows that some healthcare professionals engaged with the programme are more routinely discussing physical activity with patients, and those conversations are felt to be higher quality and more effective.

• A clear product of the Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme has been the education, training and resource tools available to support healthcare professionals in their promotion of physical activity.

• There is evidence that the programme has contributed positively to whole system change.

All MHPP Phase 2 evaluation reports can be read on the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre Website: https://bit.ly/MHPPEvaluationReports

(Source: Sheffield Hallam University)