Implementing a physical activity roadmap for workers in hospital setting

Background: Programs fostering physical activity at worksite are recommended to promote well-being. In our hospital, a large survey investigated employees’ acceptability of possible physical activity opportunities implemented at worksite.
Objectives: We aimed here to describe the main steps of this roadmap in our hospital setting.
Method: We organized a transdisciplinary group of volunteer’s members interested in physical activity implementation, comprising employees from diverse background such as physicians in sport medicine and occupational health, healthcare workers, top and middle managers, technical agents, administrative workers, communication, and financial staff. Based on the survey findings (ended in May 2022), and four consecutive meetings, the group designed a roadmap for implementation of a worksite program promoting tailored to employees’ wants and needs.
Results: The survey highlighted the importance of three main PA opportunities: onsite cycle facilities and fitness room together with external sports club partnerships. Environmental changes such as stairwells (“Nudging”), sports facilities and walking trails inside the hospital campus were also planned according to international guidelines. Funding is the main barrier to implementation, particularly for the fitness room. We planned a specific survey among sedentary workers to promote moderate activity in administrative clerks.
Conclusion: Participative approach using a transdisciplinary group of volunteers for promoting physical activity is possible even in high-intensity workplaces such as hospitals. However, it is still an ongoing process and evaluations are needed.
Practice implications: Physical activity program has been implemented.
Funding: CHU Angers.