PARX 

The PARX (Physical Activity Prescription Program) is designed promote physical activity as an essential component of health. This program is aimed to improve physical activity for patients of Kearny County Hospital who could benefit from increased physical activity. The PARX team is focused on including physical activity when designing treatment plans for patients. Each patient has specific and unique needs and interests. The goal of physical activity prescription program is the successful integration of physical activity principles and behavioral techniques that motivate the participant. The team seeks to support all patients to access physical activity opportunities by removing financial barriers.

This program is established off the premises of:

• Habit formation taking a minimum of 30 days
• Emphasis of importance when ordered or prescribed by a Provider for those at risk
• Utilizing multi model methods of physical activity by interest

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention reports that regular physical activity supports improvement in overall health, fitness, and quality of life. Being active helps reduce chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, many types of cancer, depression and anxiety and dementia. Patients facing health challenges may also have limited financial resources, which could limit access to gym memberships or yoga studio classes. Research has shown that free fitness prescription programs increase physical activity among low-income individuals and improving health outcomes. KCH aims to promote conversations among patients and providers about the importance of physical activity and linking opportunities for free physical activity by engaging local fitness sites.

This physical activity prescription program seeks to increase access to physical activity opportunities for patients by providing financial reimbursement for those activities. Each participating organization has signed the attached MOU (see attachments) prior to be eligible to participate as an approved physical activity location for selection.

PARX Team

The PARX team consists of:

• Kearny County Hospital
• Tranquility Yoga Studio
• Lakin Aquatic Center

Pathways

KCH will partner with the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas, a Blue Cross, and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) initiative and local coalition to apply for funding to invest in the PARX program. Pathways to a Healthy Kansas seeks to support all patients to access physical activity opportunities by removing financial barriers. The PARX program is established through Pathways to a Healthy Kansas #BCBSKSPathways .