Patient Perspectives on Physical Activity on Prescription (PAP) in Primary Care in Sweden: A Cross-Sectional Study

Physical Activity on Prescription (PAP) is an evidence-based method used in healthcare to promote physical activity (PA) as a treatment or complementary intervention for a range of health conditions. Despite increasing interest in PAP, knowledge about patient perspectives remains limited, as most previous research has focused on healthcare providers’ views. Aim The aim of this study was to investigate primary care patients’ attitudes towards PAP and to examine associations between these attitudes and gender, educational level, and current physical activity (PA), as well as perceived barriers to PA. Methods A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted at six primary healthcare centres in a region of mid Sweden, during spring 2025. In total, 135 participants (78 = women, 56 = men, sex not reported = 1). One open-ended item explored perceived barriers to PA. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression. Free-text responses were thematically grouped and categorised. Results Most respondents expressed positive attitudes towards PAP, considering it an important component of treatment for various health conditions. Compared with men, women reported greater confidence in PAP as an intervention for mental health problems (f = 96%; m = 80%), insomnia symptoms (f = 99%; m = 85%), and diabetes (f = 97%; m = 89%), p = .006–.012. Women were also more than three times as likely as men to seek additional information about PAP (OR 3.64, CI 1.41–9.46). Associations were observed between educational level and self-reported PA; those with higher education were more physically active and more positive towards PAP. The most frequently reported barriers to PA were lack of time, pain/injury, and low motivation. Conclusion Patients show strong support for PAP—especially women, those with higher education, and those already physically active. Given the barriers, PAP should embed brief, tailored counselling alongside planned follow-ups to sustain motivation, adjust prescriptions, and address setbacks. Incorporating patient perspectives into these counselling and follow-up procedures may strengthen implementation and have an impact on adherence, activity levels, and patient outcomes in primary care.