Assessing the implementation of physical activity-promoting public policies in Ireland: A Study using the Physical Activity Environment Policy Index (PA-EPI)

Abstract

Background: Government policy can promote physical activity (PA) as part of a multilevel systems-based approach. The Physical Activity Environment Policy Index (PA-EPI) is a tool which assesses the implementation of government policy on PA by drawing on the experience of national stakeholders. This study is the first to assess the extent of policy implementation using the PA-EPI tool and provides information on how PA policy implementation can be improved thereby maximising policy impact. Methods: This study was undertaken in 8 steps. The first steps involved collecting information about the implementation of PA policy in Ireland. and validating this information with government officials. A panel of 32 independent PA stakeholders were consulted and asked to rate the extent of implementation of all indicators of the PA-EPI. Finally, based on this information recommendations for implementation actions were generated, identified and disseminated. Results: Of the 45 indicators of the PA-EPI, one indicator received a rating of “None / Very Little”, 25 received a rating of “Low” and 19 received a “Medium” implementation Rating. No indicator was rated as fully implemented but the best implemented indicators related to sustained mass media campaigns promoting PA and the PA monitoring. We generated a shortlist of 10 priority recommendations for implementation. Conclusions: In Ireland, over half of the indicators received a low score for implementation. Our study reveals substantial implementation gaps and provides a pathway for addressing these gaps. In time, studies utilising the PA-EPI will enable cross country comparison and benchmarking of PA policy implementation.