The effect of a healthy lifestyle on reducing the utilisation of healthcare professionals and prescription medications among stroke survivors: a longitudinal investigation using linked administrative data.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine whether a healthy lifestyle was associated with reduced utilisation of healthcare professionals and/or prescription medications for stroke survivors.

Methods: The study utilised data obtained from the 45 and Up Study, linked to the Medicare claims and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme data. The outcome variables were the number of times a person received care from a range of healthcare professions and the number of different prescription medications used by participants. The risk factors were smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and supplement use. Generalised Estimating Equation models were employed to assess the longitudinal association between an outcome variable and risk factors.

Results: Stroke survivors who engaged in moderate-to-high levels of physical activity were significantly less likely to receive care from a general practitioner, a nurse, and an allied health professional, as well as to take blood-thinning medications. Stroke survivors who smoked were more likely to receive care from a specialist doctor. Moreover, stroke survivors who consumed supplements were more likely to receive care from an allied health professional.

Conclusion: The findings carry substantial implications for stroke rehabilitation and secondary prevention, highlighting the positive effects of moderate-to-high physical activity and the associated risks of smoking.