CHAMPS II was a one-year public health model program offered through a large multispecialty group practice. It focused on members of a Medicare HMO. The program was based on social cognitive theory and included principles of self-efficacy enhancement, readiness to change, and motivational interviewing. Motivational telephone support consisted of a non-pressured approach that emphasized personal choice, consideration of individual needs and preferences, and going at ones own pace. The program drew from the intervention experiences of researchers at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Stanford University.
Program Components
Participants could choose to join existing community-based classes and/or develop activities on their own (alone or with friends or family). They were provided with information on getting started, exercising safely, developing a balanced program (endurance, strength training, flexibility, balance and coordination), and progressing slowly to avoid injury. They received encouragement and support to help overcome barriers and stay motivated. These were provided through the following components:
- Informational meeting
- Medical screening and functional fitness testing
- Personal planning session
- Follow-up motivational telephone support
- Group workshops
- Newsletters
- Activity logs
Research Design
- CHAMPS II was a randomized controlled trial. Eligible participants were randomized to the one-year physical activity promotion intervention or to a one-year wait-list control group (with the option of taking part in the program at the end of the year).
- An enumeration survey of a random sample of Medicare HMO enrollees was conducted to identify eligible individuals and define the population. Those who were eligible for the study were invited to attend an informational meeting where they could learn about the program and enroll in it.
- Physical activity outcomes were measured by the CHAMPS Physical Activity Questionnaire administered at baseline, six months, and 12 months. A follow-up questionnaire was administered at 24 months.
Systematic Review
CHAMPS II was systematically reviewed by Evidence-based Cancer-control Programs (EBCCP), a searchable database of evidence-based cancer control programs and program materials developed by the National Cancer Institute. Formerly known as RTIPS (Research-Tested Intervention Programs), the database is designed to provide program planners and public health practitioners easy access to program materials. Their webpage (https://ebccp.cancercontrol.cancer.gov/index.do) provides options for searching by name or type of program.
Funding Agency
National Institute on Aging
Grant No. AG09931