Quality Improvement Strategies to Enhance Physical Activity

Physical activity is beneficial for both primary and secondary prevention of most chronic diseases. This is particularly true with relation to cardiovascular disease. Initiation and maintenance of regular physical activity has been demonstrated to positively impact the control of blood pressure, lipids, blood sugars, weight gain, and overall cardiovascular risk. The challenge lies in finding effective methods to promote physical activity with patients as well as in helping them to sustain such behaviors across the lifespan. Numerous barriers exist that inhibit physicians and the healthcare system from participating in prescribing physical activity for their patients despite the known benefits. This article examines strategies to assist patients in improving levels of physical activity and discusses the barriers to implementation.