AHRQ Innovations Exchange | Recreation “Prescriptions” Increase Use of Free Community Exercise Programs by Low-Income Patients Who Are Overweight or Obese

Recreation “Prescriptions” Increase Use of Free Community Exercise Programs by Low-Income Patients Who Are Overweight or Obese

Summary
A physician-developed program called Recreation Rx promotes healthy weight by facilitating partnerships between physicians and recreation providers in underserved communities to increase access to safe and structured activities. Area physicians discuss healthy lifestyles with overweight and obese patients, and then use preprinted pads to write a "prescription" for recreational activities within the local community. These customized pads (with separate versions for children, adults, and seniors) list recreational activities such as swimming, yoga, and other exercise programs that local providers (such as the county recreation department) have agreed to offer free of charge to prescription holders. The program has generated increased physician awareness of and referrals to community programs, and hundreds of patients have redeemed prescriptions at these programs.

Evidence Rating
Suggestive: The evidence consists of pre- and post-implementation physician surveys, post-implementation statistics on program utilization, and anecdotal reports from physicians, patients, and providers of recreation services.

Developing Organizations

R. Christopher Searles, M.D.

full-text:
AHRQ Innovations Exchange | Recreation “Prescriptions” Increase Use of Free Community Exercise Programs by Low-Income Patients Who Are Overweight or Obese