Exercise professionals have joined the suite of services available via HealthLinkBC! Now, no matter where you live in Northern BC, if you're looking to make a lifestyle change this year but you're not sure where to start, HealthLinkBC can help!
HealthLinkBC is a completely free resource that provides access to invaluable health information and advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week either online, via mobile app, or by simply dialling 8-1-1 from your phone. Until recently, the health professionals available to the public via HealthLinkBC included health services navigators, nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists. The HealthLink team has now expanded to include exercise professionals from the Physical Activity Line.
What to expect
When you dial 8-1-1, you'll be greeted by a health services navigator who will provide you with general health information and advice and/or connect you with the appropriate health care professional to address your concern. You have the option of either creating a profile or remaining anonymous during your conversation, so it's a very "low risk" conversation.
If you are phoning for physical activity advice, the exercise professionals are a great resource for evidence-based information for all ages and abilities. They are equipped to provide general physical activity screening; information on healthy living; advice on how to get and stay active; individualized physical activity prescriptions; and referrals to physical activity programs available in your local area. I wasn't sure that this would be the case for residents of smaller communities in Northern BC, but the nice gentleman I spoke to assured me that if there are resources and programs available, they will locate them for any area of BC.
For example, if you're calling from Vanderhoof, they may inform you about the accessible paths with nearby playground at Riverside Park, the cross-country ski trails at the Nechako Valley Sporting Association grounds, or the drop-in badminton club that meets at the local high school.
The exercise professionals will also provide comprehensive assistance with facilitating and supporting behaviour change, including advice on overcoming barriers, setting realistic goals, and even coming up with a backup plan to prevent or correct a relapse into unhealthy habits.
Considering the number and the remoteness of communities in Northern BC, it's pretty amazing that today's technology makes the region and its opportunities and services so much smaller and easier to navigate.
More information
- Translation services are available in more than 130 languages
- Services for those who are hearing impaired are available by dialling 7-1-1
Who is available when?
- Health services navigators and nurses: 24 hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year
- Dietitians and exercise professionals: Monday-Friday, 9 am - 5 pm
- Pharmacists: 7 days/week, 5 pm - 9 am (when a community pharmacist is unavailable)
A version of this article was originally published in the spring 2017 issue of Healthier You magazine. Read the full issue – all about shrinking geography and accessible services – on ISSUU!
Comments