Preventive healthcare practice by allied health professionals: results from a cross-sectional survey in rural and regional Victoria

Objectives
To describe the frequency of preventive healthcare practice (assess, advice, refer for support) provided by allied health professionals (AHPs) practicing in regional and rural healthcare settings to address smoking, diet and physical inactivity. To identify factors that influence the delivery of preventive healthcare practice.
Methods
AHPs working in public healthcare services in the Loddon Mallee region of Victoria were surveyed. Clinicians reported on the proportion of clients where they had provided preventive care. Likert scale questions measured factors influencing preventive healthcare practice.
Results
In total, 115 clinicians completed the survey. AHPs reported that they assess for smoking and physical activity behaviours but not diet. Preventive health practice that included providing advice or referrals for follow-on support was rarely undertaken. Availability of screening tools and automated referral letters increased the likelihood of preventive healthcare practice.
Conclusions
Greater attention to addressing modifiable lifestyle behaviours by AHPs might be warranted to match the rates of risk factors in rural and regional Victoria. Integrating support systems, for example, embedding screening questions within clinical assessments can assist preventive healthcare practice.
Implication for public health
Many AHPs are not promoting healthy behaviours to prevent poor health. We present some strategies that could potentially improve this.