Shoalhaven PCYC is out to help as many young people as possible before the end of the year.
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They have enough funds to engage 139 Shoalhaven residents aged between 12 and 24 in their GP referral program.
The program allows doctors to refer their patients to the PCYC where they will receive one year's free membership and five free fitness classes.
Young people can present with health or wellbeing reason to headspace Nowra, Crossroads, Grand Pacific Health, Ryan House, Worrigee Medical Centre or Vincentia Medical Centre for their referral.
Those aged 25 years and over can also access a referral via a GP to receive one free session of their choice.
The program aims to give young people who present with any health or wellbeing issues the opportunity to access assistance, in a fun and engaging environment.
After a Shoalhaven PCYC study completed last year found 74 per cent of adolescents felt more confident after participating PCYC fitness classes for just one month, the program came to life.
Former medical student at the University of Wollongong (UOW) and now doctor, Dr Kevin Rourke, along with PCYC manager Sam Kettlewell, are behind the program.
“Everyone’s GP has many referral options that Medicare will fund, for example, a patient with diabetes can see a dietician or podiatrist for free but this referral pathway is unique in that is is funded entirely by the Shoalhaven community to help Shoalhaven youth,” Dr Rourke said.
“This is an example of a community taking a proactive approach towards investing in the adolescent health of the Shoalhaven region.
With many young people seeking a mental health plan care from their local GP, Dr Rourke said it makes sense to include an exercise plan.
“Exercise has been proven to be as effective as medication in early prevention for mild depression, so why not link it as a primary source for Shoalhaven youth,” he said.
“This is an early intervention, you can start right away and it’s safe, healthy and it works.”
Alongside PCYC Direct service delivery and engagement Dr Rourke and his research team are completing surveys and assessments on the referred clients and will present a research paper at the end of the program December 2017 to a medical journal.
The GP referral Program is to be evaluated and presented to Medicare NSW.
Contact Shoalhaven PCYC on 4421 8588 for more information.
