Health Coaching as a Tool for Lifestyle changes. Insights from the Priomed(R) Training and Pilot intervention

Chronic diseases represent a growing global health burden, accounting for nearly 41 million deaths annually. Beyond their impact on individual health, these conditions place significant strain on healthcare system, increasing societal costs and reducing productivity among working-age population. Health coaching seems to be a promising method in preventing chronic diseases. However, limited research exists on how health coaching training programs are experienced by health coaches and clients. This study describes the experiences of participants in the PrioMed(R) health coach training program and a related coaching pilot, aiming to provide insights that can inform future training development and coaching implementation. This mixed-method study, conducted in collaboration with the Nordic Health Academy, private health care (Terveystalo), and the University of Eastern Finland. The data collection comprised a questionnaire and semi-structured individual interviews. The questionnaire results were summarized using frequency tables, and the interview data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. The findings indicate that the training program enhanced coaching skills and the insecurity experienced by the coaches was not conveyed to the coaches. Coaches highlighted the importance of practical coaching skills in training, and a healthcare background was considered beneficial for the coaching role. The coachees expressed satisfaction with the coaching methods and would recommend coaching to others. Coaches provided support, encouragement, and assistance to their coachees. The study suggests that PrioMed(R) health coaching effectively addressed individual needs in health behavior change. The findings can inform the development of effective training programs and support the integration of coaching into preventive healthcare.