Medical centre in Andover certified as an Active Practice

This recognition follows Adelaide Medical Centre's partnership with Andover Leisure Centre on a project aimed at increasing physical activity among patients and staff.

Dr Steph Carter, GP partner, said: "We are really pleased to have been certified as an official ‘Active Practice’, recognising our efforts in supporting patients and staff alike to increase their physical activity levels and experience the positive health benefits of doing so."

This was achieved through efforts such as standing desks, weekend dog walks, 10-minute exercise classes during coffee breaks, and encouraging outdoor lunch and break times.

The centre also uses a bike for home visits instead of driving.

Adelaide Medical Centre has worked closely with Andover Leisure Centre, inviting patients to take part in the exercise-on-referral scheme.

Adelaide Medical Centre certified as part of the ‘active practice scheme.’(Image: Steph Carter.)

They have also actively encouraged patients to engage with other local services, such as the iCan gym, park run, walk and talk schemes, and local sport in mind initiatives.

The practice's initiatives are intended to combat physical inactivity, which is linked to one in six deaths in the UK and is a known risk factor for conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers.

Evidence shows that brief advice from a GP can increase physical activity levels by up to 49 per cent.

The commitment to the "Active Practice Scheme" involves encouraging physical activity among patients, supporting staff to be more active at work and at home, and creating a healthier practice environment.

Dr Carter said: "We’re fortunate in Andover to have a number of fantastic local organisations that can help people achieve their activity goals.

"In particular, the team at Andover Leisure Centre, who offer targeted programmes designed to support individuals with specific health conditions through the Exercise on Referral Scheme.

"If you’re reading this and are not sure where to start or would like guidance on how to increase your activity levels safely and effectively, please reach out to your usual GP Practice."