Community-based lifestyle modification workforce: an underutilised asset for cardiovascular disease prevention
Nerida Volker A C , Lauren T. Williams A B , Rachel C. Davey A and Thomas Cochrane AA University of Canberra, Centre for Research & Action in Public Health, University of Canberra, College Road, Bruce, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
B Griffith Health Institute, Griffith University, Parklands Drive, Southport, Queensland 4222, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: nerida.volker@canberra.edu.au
Australian Journal of Primary Health 22(4) 327-331 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY14178
Submitted: 16 December 2014 Accepted: 19 March 2015 Published: 2 September 2015
Abstract
This paper reports on a qualitative study exploring the capacity of the community sector to support a whole-of-system response to cardiovascular disease prevention in primary health care. As a component of the Model for Prevention (MoFoP) study, community-based lifestyle modification providers were recruited in the Australian Capital Territory to participate in focus group discussions; 34 providers participated across six focus groups: 20 Allied Health Professionals (four groups) and 14 Lifestyle Modification Program providers (two groups). Thematic analysis of focus group transcripts was undertaken using a mixed deductive and inductive approach. Participant responses highlight several barriers to their greater contribution to cardiovascular disease prevention. These included that prevention activities are not valued, limited sector linkages, inadequate funding models and the difficulty of behaviour change. Findings suggest that improvements in the value proposition of prevention for all stakeholders would be supported by improved funding mechanisms and increased opportunities to build relationships across health and community sectors.
Additional keywords: allied health, health promotion, primary health care, qualitative.
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