September 20, 2011 - The Georgia Association of Physician Assistants (GAPA) is encouraging all Georgians to “Get Fit with GAPA” this fall. The program is designed to challenge Physician Assistants and their patients to improve nutrition and fitness levels, and have fun while doing both!

“GAPA has been offered an extraordinary opportunity to partner with Georgia State Parks in its "Tons of Fun" program,” said Mary Vacala, ATC, PA-C, MSPAS, DFAAPA. Vacala is the 2011-12 GAPA president. “This effort provides tools and opportunities to help Georgians fight the obesity epidemic by offering events to promote healthy eating programs and fun outdoor activities to help burn calories and build muscles.”

GAPA will be staffing a free "health check" station at the “Tons of Fun” event on Saturday, October 22 at Panola Mountain State Park, southeast of Atlanta.  This community event is being planned in conjunction with “Food Day” on October 24, which promotes safe, healthy foods and curbing junk-food marketing to kids. GAPA volunteers will provide basic services such as blood pressure checks, along with family counseling and recommendations on healthy eating and exercise programs.

“This is a great opportunity to find out how simple activities such as a walk in the great outdoors can be a life-changing experience!” said Vacala. “It is the first event of many that GAPA will be participating in at state parks and historic sites over the coming months.”

GAPA is also expanding its website resources for patients, helping them discover fun, easy, and free or low-cost ways to incorporate sensible eating plans and outdoor activities into their daily lives. GAPA members can further help patients by creating a customized diet and exercise plan that takes into consideration their medical history, lifestyle and budget. Patients can find a Physician Assistant near them by clicking on the “Find a PA” link on the GAPA website.

Visit gapa.net/fit to learn more and “Get fit with GAPA.”

The launch of “Get Fit with GAPA” coincides with the observation of National PA Week, which is celebrated every year from October 6-12. It is a time to support, celebrate and recognize PAs, and increase public awareness of the PA profession.  The mission of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants is to promote high quality, cost-effective, accessible healthcare as part of a Physician-directed PA/Physician team.

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