Background

In Belgium, only 41% of female and 31% of male adults are physically active, while physical activity (PA) reduces 19.5% of the attributable burden of chronic diseases. Evidence shows that physical activity on prescription (PAP) has a positive impact on PA levels and metabolic health. Furthermore, 94% of the Belgian population have contact with general practitioners (GPs), positioning them as potential key actors.

Purpose

To investigate the current involvement of GPs and their use of PAP.

Methods

Firstly, a desk research and informal interviews with stakeholders were carried out to map existing initiatives and identify policies relating to PAP. Secondly, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Belgian GPs between January and March 2023 for which descriptive statistics were performed.

Results

In Belgium, there is no national policy on PAP, however 33 initiatives and 8 policies were identified. PAP was provided through either coaching (motivational) sessions and/or collective adapted physical activity sessions. Amongst PAP initiatives, GPs were always reported as prescribers.  Only five initiatives developed their program with primary prevention as a goal.

134 GPs completed the survey of which 56% were female. 86.8% of GPs (would) prescribe if patients' health status would be remedied by increasing PA, while 35.8% (would) use PAP if patients are inactive, regardless of their health status. About 75% identified chronic disease and exercise initiation as a motivation to use PAP. 41% would refer to PA (motivational) coaches, 55.2% to (adapted) PA courses.

Conclusions

Although no national policy on PAP nor national plan exist, several initiatives are implemented where GPs play a prominent role. PAP was mainly used for secondary prevention targeting patients with chronic diseases. Furthermore, GPs used (were ready to use) PAP in their practice albeit PAP has not been routinely implemented.