"So many people don't understand what exercise physiology is." Understanding the integration of Accredited Exercise Physiologists within Australian healthcare: A qualitative study

Objectives: To explore the perspectives and experiences of Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) regarding their integration within the Australian healthcare setting.

Design: A qualitative descriptive approach utilising semi-structured interviews.

Methods: Practicing AEPs (n = 15) completed interviews via videoconferencing between May and July 2023. Interviews were digitally transcribed, and data analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: Five primary themes were identified: understanding (with three subthemes related to the general population, health professionals, and the role of an AEP in promoting greater understanding), communication (with three subthemes related to the value of communication between AEPs and the referrer, the referrer and the client, and AEPs and other health professionals), the need for greater mentorship, further education and professional development in early-career AEPs, and systemic factors (cost, access, and procedural difficulties).

Conclusions: The findings highlight the value of having AEPs co-located with other health professionals (including general practitioners) and suggest that greater education on the role and benefits of an AEP may be required. Future studies should explore the views of the general population, current clients and other health professionals to design solutions for optimising integration of AEP services within the Australian healthcare system.