Sport Bay of Plenty

A ‘Green Prescription' is written advice from a GP or practice nurse for a patient to become more physically active as a way to improve their health outcomes.

In the Bay of Plenty, this programme is run by Sport Bay of Plenty who provide coverage for the whole region from offices based in Tauranga, Whakatane and Rotorua.

Trained advisors help patients through encouragement and education, providing options and information on physical activity, realistic goal setting, on-going support , and providing basic nutritional guidance.

The programme is for a period of up to 6 months.

Each year, a national survey is conducted on a randomised selection of those on the programme.

This year, the results for Bay of Plenty have exceeded all the national averages and improved further on their performance from previous years.

A total of 85 per cent of of Green Prescription (GRx) patients surveyed in the Bay of Plenty area have noticed a change in their health since they 'went Green”, and 69 per cent are more active after six to eight months.

A total of 90 per cent of patients are more aware of and understand the benefits of physical activity, and 87 per cent of those referred are motivated to participate in the Green Prescription programme.

Within the last year, Sport Bay of Plenty helped 2850 Green Prescriptions patients to reap the health benefits of becoming more active.

Different options are recommended depending on the interest and abilities of the patient. These can include activities such as walking, aqua exercise, or Green Prescription exercise groups.

The Bay of Plenty region has an abundance of fantastic walks, cycleways or exercise facilities and classes that are easily accessible.

The patients that benefit most are those with conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and depression/anxiety.

It is satisfying to see the difference that the programme can make to people's quality and enjoyment of life. Sport Bay of Plenty is pleased to hear that 87 per cent of people are satisfied with the service they provide.

If you are interested in a Green Prescription, and feel it may be something you can benefit from, please talk to your GP or practice nurse to see if you are eligible for referral. Alternatively, if you want to read more about what it involves or to learn about what physical activity options are available in the Bay of Plenty please visit www.sportbop.co.nz