Community Exercise Programs for Chronic Disease and the Emerging Role of Physical Activity for Health in Ireland: A Mini Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56147/jbhs.3.3.147Keywords:
- Chronic disease,
- Community exercise,
- Exercise referral,
- Physical activity,
- Health systems,
- Rehabilitation,
- Ireland,
- Healthcare
Abstract
Community-based exercise programs are increasingly recognized as important components of chronic disease management. In Ireland the Physical Activity for Health (PAfH) pilot was introduced to strengthen pathways between healthcare and community physical activity services. This mini review provides a brief overview of the current development and positioning of the Physical Activity for Health (PAfH) program within Ireland. It examines how the emerging PAfH model aligns with international approaches to integrated care, exercise referral and community-based chronic disease management, while highlighting its potential role in strengthening pathways between healthcare and community physical activity services. The review also identifies key priorities moving forward, including the need for robust evaluation, standardized referral pathways, integrated service delivery and evidence examining clinical outcomes, healthcare utilization and long-term sustainability.
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