ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal® September - October 2024 CEC Course #3: Developing Trusted Collaborative Relationships between Healthcare Providers and Exercise Professionals

1 CEC

By Amy Bantham, DrPH, MS, MPP; Jeff Young, MS, CSCS, EIM; and Matthew Kampert, DO, MS, ACSM-CEP

Summary:

This feature article examines how to bridge the gap between healthcare professionals and exercise professionals with the ultimate goal of creating seamless, effective, and mutually beneficial relationships to improve the health of patients and clients served by these professionals. It compares a traditional approach to exercise referrals with a digital approach, using the Cleveland Clinic BRIDGE-PROJECT as a case study. It provides a three-step process for exercise professionals to receive referrals, including 1) reviewing information from the referral source on the exercise prescription form, 2) performing a baseline screen and assessment, and 3) performing a follow-up assessment and returning a progress report to the referral source. It shares additional information and support for building a referral network tailored specifically to exercise professionals not working in a clinical setting. It recognizes that the development of trusted collaborative relationships is an ongoing process that requires clear communication, shared educational efforts, evidence-based practice, and a mutual understanding of each party's expertise and constraints.

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