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Study on the Impact of Exercise Prescription on Medical Insurance Cost Control

Author(s)

Chao Xu1,#, Xi Yang2,#, Ying Zhang3,#, Xuecan Yang1,4, Laurent Peyrodie5, Jean-Marie Nianga6, Zefeng Wang3,4,5,6,*

Affiliation(s)

1ASIR, Institute - Association of intelligent systems and robotics, Paris, France 2Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China 3College of Engineering, College of Teacher Education, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China 4IEIP, Institute of Education and Innovation in Paris, Paris, France 5ICL, Junia, Université Catholique de Lille, LITL, F-59000 Lille, France 6Sino-Congolese Foundation for Development, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo #These Authors Contributed Equally to This Work. *Corresponding Author.

Abstract

This study examines the role of exercise prescriptions in controlling medical insurance costs amidst the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and rising healthcare expenses. Exercise prescriptions are customized physical activity plans issued by healthcare professionals that aim to improve health outcomes and reduce the financial burden on healthcare systems. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research combines quantitative data from electronic health records (EHRs) with qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups involving healthcare providers, patients, and insurance professionals. The quantitative analysis shows significant health improvements among patients with exercise prescriptions, including a 20% reduction in hospitalization rates and a 15% decrease in medication usage. The cost-benefit analysis suggests that the annual cost of implementing an exercise prescription program is approximately $150,000, whereas the resulting healthcare savings amount to $250,000, leading to a net saving of $100,000. Participants in these programs also see a 12% reduction in insurance premiums due to decreased healthcare utilization and improved health outcomes. Qualitative insights highlight better patient engagement, stronger provider-patient relationships, and perceived benefits like enhanced physical fitness and more effective chronic disease management. However, challenges such as limited resources and insufficient coverage for exercise prescription services are noted. Case studies from the United Kingdom and the United States affirm the cost-effectiveness of exercise prescriptions, displaying significant health benefits and financial savings. The study concludes that exercise prescriptions are a cost-effective strategy for managing chronic diseases and reducing healthcare costs. It recommends integrating exercise prescriptions into routine clinical practice and supporting their adoption through strategic policies and incentives, paving the way for substantial health and economic gains for healthcare systems. Further research should investigate the long-term effects and ways to improve patient adherence to exercise prescriptions.

Keywords

Exercise Prescriptions; Healthcare Costs; Chronic Disease Management; Cost-benefit Analysis; Medical Insurance; Health Outcomes

References

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