Author(s): ABDELLI, I., GELIUS, P., Institution: UNIL, Country: SWITZERLAND, Abstract-ID: 1230

Introduction
Disability Insurance (DI) is a compulsory Social Insurance (SI) in Switzerland. Its main purpose is to rehabilitate people with disabilities related to chronic health conditions. Physical Activity (PA) has well-established positive effects on individual health by mobilising and developing the preserved capacities of those affected, thus supporting the reintegration of disabled persons into society. At a systemic level, however, most PA promotion takes place within the health sector, while its role within the SI system remains underexplored. This exploratory case study examined the possibilities for implementing a PA intervention for the beneficiaries of DI in French-speaking Switzerland.

Method
Data were collected through qualitative semi-structured interviews (60–90 min) conducted with officials from the cantonal DI offices within the Swiss cantons of Fribourg, Geneva and Vaud. The interview guide addressed participants’ trajectories, beneficiary populations, available interventions, the possibilities and legal restrictions to implementing PA programs, as well as conceptions of and practices related to PA. Particular attention was also paid to interviewees’ attitudes. Following transcription, a qualitative content analysis based on central categories as stipulated in current national law, namely the DI Act (RS 831.20).

Results
The results show that the Swiss legal framework governing DI offers the necessary freedom to implement PA as a measure for socio-professional reintegration. Respondents indicated a high degree of alignment between the objectives of DI and those of PA promotion tailored to the individual. The interviewees noted that PA interventions may be particularly well suited for insurance recipients during the first year of support and for young adults, who may benefit from more comprehensive interventions. However, they also pointed out that for this practice to become widespread among DIs, it is necessary to address the attitudes of the professionals involved and to make them aware that the objectives of the DI and those of PA promotion are mutually aligned and complementary.

Discussion
Based on social security data, implementing socio-professional PA interventions within the DI in Switzerland could reach more than 200,000 beneficiaries. PA interventions are particularly relevant for supporting vulnerable populations at a higher risk of developing multimorbidities, which could be partially or fully prevented through regular PA. Consequently, to ensure access to low-cost measures in the long term for these populations, it is essential that key decision-makers within the social welfare system recognise the alignment of the interests of SI and those of PA promotion.