b'CONTINUITY OF CARE Through Community PartnershipsCommunity Based Health and Wellness Program In partnership with the Spears, Bryan and Reidsville YMCAs, THNs Provider Referral Exercise Program (PREP) offers patients an engaging coaching and education program that empowers them to take charge of their health by learning to how to exercise properly and eat healthy. In 2022, guided by wellness nurses, including Pam Hinshaw, MSN, RN, CCM, CIHC, and Lora McPhail, BSN, RN, RYT, the 115 patients who completed the program altogether lost 538 pounds. During the 12-week program, participants benefit from fitness equipment instruction and routine exercise. In addition, they become adept at nutrition; they learn to read food labels, reduce sodium and prepare healthy foods and portions. In addition to losing weight, many improve health conditions, like blood pressure or diabetes, build muscle or improve joint function.Cardiologist Tiffany Randolph, MD, MHA, FACC, refers many patients to the PREP program since it can be hard for patients to take the first step when it comes to exercising or eating better. Lifestyle change discussions are often relegated to a small time during an office visit, says Dr. Randolph. Often, patients know they need to exercise or eat better, but they dont know how to get started.14'