The programme explained

The GP Exercise Referral Programme is a 12 week programme to help you develop a physically active lifestyle.

Qualified Local Coordinators who have completed the HSE National Training Course are running the programme from facilities across Ireland.  To find out if a leisure facility near you is running the programme and for more information about the facilities click here.

Is the programme right for me? If you have ever thought;

I don’t know what activity is best for me?
How much activity should I be doing?
I have tried and tried but never stay active
I’m scared of getting injured or unwell

Your Local Coordinator will help you become motivated, confident  and independent.

If you are over 18 years of age and are finding it difficult to keep active then this could be the programme for you! Over 12 weeks you and your Local Coordinator will gradually increase your activity levels, motivation and confidence so that on completion you have all the skills you need to stay active, happy and healthy for life.

The Referral Process

You and your GP complete the referral form

A copy of your referral form is sent to your Local Coordinator

Your Local Coordinator Contacts you to arrange and Initial Assessement Apointment

Your 12 week Programme

Your Initial Assessment
Your Local Coordinator will meet you at the Leisure Facility.
Set goals, get your Activity Pack, Plan your exercise sessions, learn how to use the gym (if you want to!) have your baselines and medical details checked, meet the staff and get to know your facility

Mid-Way assessment
Check your goals, re-plan your sessions

Final Assessment
Review your progress, set goals for the future, re-check your baselines, complete and get certificate, report sent to your GP.

I have a medical condition, can I take part?

In most cases -yes.  Your Local Coordinator is specially trained to teach patients with a variety of medical conditions such as;

Diabetes                  Backpain
High Cholesterol       Osteoarthritis
Overweight/Obese   Stress/Anxiety
Depression               Asthma
Osteoporosis            Lung disease
Raised Blood Pressure

We cannot currently cater for some higher risk conditions, such as coronary heart disease, due to safety reasons.  Please contact us to enquire about other suitable exercise pathways.

Your doctor will decide if you can take part if he/she feels your medical condition does not put you at high risk of medical problems by increasing your activity.

HOW DO I GET REFERRED?

You need to visit your GP and once they have confirmed that the programme is right for you, he/she will forward a referral form to a participating leisure centre in your area.  When the Local Coordinator receives your form from the GP they will contact you to arrange an initial appointment for a time that suits you

What activities will I be doing?

The activities available will vary depending on the leisure facility and area you live in.  You will get to choose your activities and they may include;
Gym
Walking
Swimming
Exercise Classes
Cycling
The programme also links you with healthy eating advice, healthy lifestyle advice and the local sports partnership
How much will it cost?
Some centres offer a pay-as-you-go rate while others offer a 3-month membership at a discounted rate.

Mission statements from patients that have completed the GP Referral Programme;

“I would never have thought of joining a gym. I had a completely different perception of one, I took to the gym like a duck to water”

“I am amazed at the progress I am making with the cardio vascular machines. I love the Stretch & Tone exercises. I learned to swim with confidence at 50 with the help and encouragement of the dedicated staff”

“I have more energy. A day that I wouldn’t feel like coming up to training I just say look it’s good for you and you are after getting benefits as well”

Ask your GP to refer you today!