Motivating patients to move.
BACKGROUND
Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of regular physical activity (30 minutes of moderate activity 5 days per week) for a range of chronic diseases including the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease. The challenge remains for general practitioners to incorporate this advice effectively into their routine clinical practice.


OBJECTIVE
This article outlines the current physical activity targets for optimal heart health, and approaches GPs can take to facilitate positive behaviour change for their patients in their role as agents of change and leaders of the primary health team.


CONCLUSIONS
Current best practice for GPs incorporates the '5 As' approach: Ask (identify those who can benefit), Assess (current activity level), Advise (individualised), Assist (provide a written 'script' for action and support material) and Arrange (appropriate referral and follow up). Incorporating motivational interviewing techniques, adopting a whole practice approach (including the judicious use of practice nurses) and establishing linkages with community agencies, are additional ways in which GPs can be more effective in this area.
Huang
Nancy
N
Victorian Council on Physical Activity and General Health (VICFIT), Clayton, Victoria. nancy. huang@vicfit.com.au
D000328:Adult; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002648:Child; D015444:Exercise; D005194:Family Practice / Q000379:methods*; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D009042:Motivation; D009043:Motor Activity; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*