An Exploration/Investigation of General Practitioners’ and General Practice Nurses’ Opinions on Physical Activity Promotion to their Patients in Ireland

Chronic disease rates are increasing globally, this is partially attributable to the global epidemic of physical inactivity. Physical activity promotion in primary care is regarded as the best approach for combating chronic disease. This study investigated the common beliefs and opinions among general practitioners and nurses on promoting physical activity to patients in Ireland. This research took a mixed-methods approach consisting of an online questionnaire (n=79) and semi-structured interviews (n=8). Lack of time, expertise, cohesiveness, referral pathways, and exercise professionals were the main barriers to physical activity promotion experienced. A small minority (7.6%) of participants were trained in exercise prescription, and 40.5% had knowledge of a local exercise professional. Furthermore, the research indicated that 70.2% of GPs and 86.4% of GP nurses did not provide an exercise referral. Physical activity promotion in primary care needs a cohesive approach. Involving an exercise professional is crucial to help facilitate to aid physical activity promotion.