Results: The Perfect Fit

1. Physical activity program development for low income populations: results from “The Perfect Fit” needs assessment and initial program implementation Jennifer Sloan1, Margaret Lott1, Amanda Downey2, Mary I. Herbert1, Molly B. Conroy1 1University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; 2Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA Introduction Program Implementation: The Perfect Fit Results: The Perfect Fit Results: Post-Class Survey (N = 7) • Low income populations are at increased risk for sedentary behavior and diseases associated with low levels of physical activity (PA), including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. • Understanding barriers to physical activity is important to design physical activity programming for this population. • Weekly walking group • Meets Saturdays, rain or shine at clinic • 30 – 40 minute walk around South Side • Led by clinic staff and volunteers • Bi-Monthly Yoga Class • Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at the Brashear Center, South Side • 60 minute beginner yoga class • Led by volunteer yoga instructors from School House Yoga • 114 patients have inquired about or expressed interest in the program • 54 have completed physician clearance • 15 have attended at least one session • 7 have attended multiple sessions Only 7 patients completed the initial post-class survey, but all rated the class highly (4 or 5 on a scale of 1-5) and reported increased motivation to continue PA outside of class Objectives • The purpose of the needs assessment and physical activity program were to: • Understand the barriers that the low-income, uninsured patients of the Birmingham Free Clinic face to performing physical activity. • Use this understanding to create opportunities for physical activity that meet the needs and interests of this population. Results: Needs Assessment (N = 101) Discussion • It is possible that the disparity between interest and participation stems from difficult life circumstances which prevent patients from prioritizing exercise. • However, many participants felt the program had a positive impact on their life. One participant wrote, “I feel relaxed and invigorated. I feel grateful, thank you!” Another participant said that the walking group really helped him work through his depression and turn his life around. Methods: Needs Assessment • A needs assessment survey was distributed to a random sample of clinic patients between 12/2011 and 2/2012. • The survey included current PA behavior, barriers to PA, and desired PA programs. Results: Pre-Class Survey (N = 13) Summary and Conclusion Methods: Program Evaluation • Our needs assessment demonstrated enthusiasm for free PA programming delivered by a free clinic for uninsured patients. • We continue to work on ways to address barriers to PA in this population and increase participation in the program. • Pre-survey: Given to participants before their first class to understand their physical activity experience and goals in participating. • Post-survey: Given to participants after their first class to get feedback on their satisfaction with the class. • Check-in survey: Given to participants after attending 5 classes to get feedback on their satisfaction with the classes and its impact on their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Acknowledgements This program was supported by the Allegheny County Medical Society Foundation, the Program for Health Care to Underserved Populations, the Salvation Army and the Brashear Center. • 71% said they would be interested in taking physical activity classes offered by the clinic