National center on health, physical activity and disability - the healthcare system and public health community are often underprepared to support the needs of individuals with mobility limitations…

National center on health, physical activity and disability - the healthcare system and public health community are often underprepared to support the needs of individuals with mobility limitations (ML) and to include them equitably in wellness programs (e.g., exercise, leisure, nutrition, stress management) offered to the general community. Consequently, the vast majority of people with ML are unable to make the transition from ?patient? To ?participant,? Which contributes to many of the health disparities seen in this population. In this five-year application, the national center on health, physical activity and disability (nchpad) will reduce these disparities by providing an evidence-based pathway from healthcare to wellness for people with ML. Nchpad will engage the spectrum of stakeholders ? Individuals with mobility limitations, caregivers, healthcare providers, community-based organizations, students ? In order to deliver adapted programs in health promotion and wellness that meet the unique needs of people with ML and help bridge this GAP in the healthcare system. Activities funded under this cooperative agreement will be offered both in home (through telehealth) and in community settings via three integrative strategies: 1) expand capacity for health screening of people with ML and analyze health screening data to inform health and wellness programs; 2) implement, evaluate, and disseminate health promotion/wellness programs and resources that promote healthy lifestyle behaviors; and 3) expand capacity through training healthcare and community-based providers to reach a growing number of people with ML who need access to health promotion/wellness. By expanding access to health and wellness programs that are uniquely adapted to the needs of people with ML, nchpad will be the conduit that reduces this GAP in healthcare and public health, increasing equitability of care and improving quality of life for individuals with mobility limitations.