Purpose: Physical activity on prescription (PAP) programmes have demonstrated a positive impact on health, wellbeing, and physical activity levels. However, such programmes face both structural and organisational barriers. In Belgium, PAP programmes are implemented in various forms. In Flanders, a regional programme centred on physical activity counselling was established; whereas in Wallonia, multiple decentralised initiatives co-exist, with a primarily focus on adapted physical activity. In 2023, a national network was established to foster synergies among existing initiatives and enable stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the PAP ecosystem. One of the objectives of this network was to develop potential models for a harmonised PAP framework in Wallonia and, therefore, in Belgium. Methods: A working group was formed based on the national network of PAP initiatives, and a non-systematic narrative review of PAP was carried out, focusing specifically on four prescription-based systems in Europe. Sources included peer-reviewed articles, grey literature, and policy documents retrieved through targeted searches. Key structural elements that could be further explored, refined, and operationalised within a working group were identified through expert consultation. Additionally, key areas where further research is needed to inform both practice and future programme development were also highlighted. Results: When already well-documented or experienced in existing programmes, facilitating a capitalisation on current practices, some structural elements of PAP were prioritised to be explored and refined by the working group. These structural elements were: the categories of prescribed physical activity and their definitions, the prescribers, the beneficiaries; the physical activity professional, their roles and training. Gaps in the literature and further research specific to Wallonia context were also identified. Conclusion: Despite the limitations of narrative reviews, this study serves as a rapid preliminary assessment that can facilitate the consolidation of expertise and the capitalisation on existing PAP initiatives. This initial overview provides a foundation for structuring existing PAP and for identifying future research directions that can enhance their practical implementation. Support/Funding Source: This study was conducted in collaboration of the Expertise Centre in Health Promotion in Sciensano, funded by l'Agence pour une Vie de Qualité, Department Zorg and Vivalis.
Pandolfi et al. (Wed,) studied this question.