WHAT. What is Credits4Health (C4H)?

It is a social innovation and health promotion program funded by the European Union as part of the Seventh Framework Program. It entails an innovative incentives and individualized routes system using an online platform designed by doctors, nutritionists, kinesiologists, medical ethics experts, psychologists and science and technology professionals. Its aim is to support people in improving their diets and following a proper exercise program, thus helping to spread the word on a healthier lifestyle. For more information visit: www.credits4health.gr.

WHO. Who can participate?

Anyone who registers before December 31, 2014, is between 20 and 65 years old, resides permanently in one of the areas where the study is carried out, and can access the C4H platform via a PC, tablet or smartphone that has internet access.

WHY. What is the purpose of C4H;

Its purpose is to improve people’s lifestyle by acting on three distinct levels: 1) limiting people’s sedentary lifestyle and introducing proper exercise, 2) adopting a healthier, balanced diet based on the principles of the Mediterranean diet, 3) participating in a more active social life.

By implementing best practices in health care, and with the expertise of well-established health and ethics professionals, C4H aims to create and assess a simple yet effective approach based on new technologies, with the long-term aim of rendering it sustainable and applicable in the future, in other European countries, too.

WHERE. Where does C4H take place?

In Greece: in the Municipality of Pylos-Nestor. In Italy: in Florence (metropolitan zone) and Salento (Brindisi, Lecce and Taranto provinces). In Spain: in Girona.

WHEN. When does it take place and how long does it last?

C4H is divided into three phases and will conclude at the end of 2016. Today marks the beginning of the first phase, which will last three months. However, registrations are open only until December 31, 2014. In the unfortunate event that participation is impossible, due to limited spaces or expiry of the deadline, one may fill in the registration form and provide their details in order to participate in the following phases.

HOW. How does C4H work?

Visit website www.credits4health.gr to learn more about the benefits of C4H, and if you meet all the necessary requirements for participation, click on the “Register” button. It is only a short registration form. The program team will contact you to arrange a meeting in one of the nearest study centers. After checking whether you meet the participation requirements, the C4H staff will provide you with the credentials to access the C4H platform, and your personal physical activity detector, Fitbug Orb, which will enable you to track your physical activity. Visit the platform and choose your goals and the individualized routes that best fit you; plan your activities and track your progress, following the platform’s suggestions and advice, overseen by our experts. Visit the platform regularly and be an active member of the C4H community. After two months you will be able to check your progress, and C4H will invite you to participate in the program’s second phase, which will include a reward points system, with discounts on goods and services, offered by affiliated companies.