Does Physical Activity Could Moderate Perceived Wellness of Health Providers?

Abstract

Background: Sufficient levels of physical activity are an issue for health, quality of life, and more importantly for healthcare providers. This study aimed to determine the status of physical activity and its relationship with perceived wellness in healthcare workers. Methods: This study included about 254 health personnel who work in urban health centers in Shiraz. The IPAQ and PWS self-administered questionnaires were used to collect information. This study was approved by the ethic and council committee of the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Additionally, moral considerations (confidentiality and informed consent) was observed, and data were analyzed with SPSS V.19.IBM. Results: About 46% of the participants had moderated to severe physical activity. The results indicated a strong relationship between physical activity, perceived health and all its dimensions, except for social health and mental health. Furthermore, perceived health was significantly associated with age (ρ = 0.039, β = 0.61) and gender (ρ = 0.002, β = 9.33). Conclusions: Regarding the staff’s insufficient physical activity, the strong relationship between physical activity and health. Their impact on the organization’s direct and indirect costs, health promotion programs and policies have to be designed focusing on the staff’s physical activity.