What is the primary goal of the Exercise is Medicine credentialing process?

The primary goal of the Exercise is Medicine credentialing process is to prepare and certify healthcare professionals for prescribing exercise. This initiative is rooted in the belief that physical activity is a vital and effective component of overall healthcare. By equipping professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to incorporate exercise prescription into patient care, the program aims to encourage health professionals to advocate for exercise as a foundational aspect of health management.

This focus on certification ensures that healthcare providers are not only aware of the benefits of exercise but also have the competencies to design safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual patient needs. This is particularly important in managing chronic diseases and improving overall patient outcomes, as physical activity can significantly impact recovery, disease management, and quality of life.

In contrast, while decreasing healthcare costs may be a secondary benefit of an effective exercise prescription strategy, it is not the main objective of the credentialing process. Similarly, promoting sports competitions and providing physical therapy training do not align with the specifics of the Exercise is Medicine initiative, as the focus remains on health promotion through regular physical activity rather than competition or specific rehabilitative techniques.