CheckUP’s Townsville hub have been working hard on tackling chronic disease through a physical activity and nutrition project, which addresses the disparity in physical activity and nutrition between people living in regional, remote and rural areas compared to those in metropolitan areas. The initiative aims to establish stronger links between healthcare professionals, patients, and local physical activity and nutrition initiatives. Currently focused in North Queensland the project can be further expanded into other areas with plans for the West Moreton/Darling Downs region to be next.
By investigating literature and health professional opinions towards enablers and barriers, the CheckUP team have been able to develop a set of easy to use resources and tools, which assist health professionals like GPs to increase patient opportunities to exercise. One tool includes an additional ‘tile’ on the GoShare platform, which will make identifying and customising local region-specific information for patients, on physical activity and lifestyle activities much easier and quicker. Information can then be emailed tor texted to patients with the click of a button.
By utilising GoShare, GPs and other healthcare professionals will also have the option, at the same time, to share health literacy information around chronic disease including patient experiences, case studies, and evidence-based health management guidelines.
This project is funded until 30 June 2020.
For more information on the project, please contact Health Promotion Officers, Edie Stevens, estevens@checkup.org.au or, Annabel Johnston, ajohnston@checkup.org.au or by phone 07 4721 0754.
