OBJECTIVE: This study explored the utility of using behaviour change taxonomies and checklists to systematically assess the content and delivery of behavioural support for physical activity delivered through an established exercise-referral scheme. DESIGN: An observation study was conducted whereby 22% of initial consultations were observed and audio-recorded, using quota sampling stratified by exercise-referral advisor. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Content was independently coded by two researchers, to assess; (i) completeness in delivering the programme protocol, (ii) behaviour change techniques delivered (defined using the CALO-RE taxonomy) and (iii) delivery style according to the Behaviour Change Counselling Index (BECCI). RESULTS: Protocol completeness was 63.6% (range 35.6-74.6%). The behaviour change techniques delivered most consistently were 'providing information about where and when to perform the behavior' (86%) and 'setting outcome goals' (82%). Other evidence-based techniques such as self-monitoring were infrequently observed. Variation in BECCI scores indicated that advisors could, but did not consistently, provide a client-centred service. CONCLUSION: This study highlights how theoretically informed taxonomies can be useful in evaluating service delivery within applied practice, providing a meaningful way of assessing the completeness of protocol delivery relative to evidence. The provision of feedback to practitioners based on such objective criteria also facilitated positive academic-practitioner communication.
OBJECTIVE: This study explored the utility of using behaviour change taxonomies and checklists to systematically assess the content and delivery of behavioural support for physical activity delivered through an established exercise-referral scheme. DESIGN: An observation study was conducted whereby 22% of initial consultations were observed and audio-recorded, using quota sampling stratified by exercise-referral advisor. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Content was independently coded by two researchers, to assess; (i) completeness in delivering the programme protocol, (ii) behaviour change techniques delivered (defined using the CALO-RE taxonomy) and (iii) delivery style according to the Behaviour Change Counselling Index (BECCI). RESULTS: Protocol completeness was 63.6% (range 35.6-74.6%). The behaviour change techniques delivered most consistently were 'providing information about where and when to perform the behavior' (86%) and 'setting outcome goals' (82%). Other evidence-based techniques such as self-monitoring were infrequently observed. Variation in BECCI scores indicated that advisors could, but did not consistently, provide a client-centred service. CONCLUSION: This study highlights how theoretically informed taxonomies can be useful in evaluating service delivery within applied practice, providing a meaningful way of assessing the completeness of protocol delivery relative to evidence. The provision of feedback to practitioners based on such objective criteria also facilitated positive academic-practitioner communication.