Explanation
This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into a contract with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSU) for the implementation of the Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Program at select community center locations, beginning June 1, 2026. This agreement builds upon a previously established partnership and continues a collaborative effort to improve community health outcomes through structured wellness programming.
Background: The EIM Program provides physician-referred participants with guided exercise programming, including individualized fitness plans, group sessions, and wellness coaching. Services will be implemented and operated by OSU staff within CRPD facilities, ensuring professional oversight while leveraging existing community center resources to expand access to health and wellness services.
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is uniquely qualified to provide the Exercise is Medicine® Program due to its clinical expertise, established referral network, and ownership and administration of the proprietary program model. OSU is responsible for the full implementation and operation of the program, including staffing, participant intake, and program delivery.
Principal Parties:
The Ohio State University
DBA Exercise Is Medicine
7000 Ackerman Rd., Suite 1000
Columbus, OH 43202
Jodi Kuri - jodi.kuri@osumc.edu <mailto:jodi.kuri@osumc.edu>
Fiscal Impact: Revenue will be paid to Recreation and Parks and contribute to the sustainability of the Department.
Title
To authorize and direct the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into not for profit services contract with The Ohio State University, for implementation of the Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Program that will benefit the public by improving health and safety. ($0.00)
Body
WHEREAS, it is necessary to authorize and direct the Recreation and Parks Department Director to enter into contract with The Ohio State University, for implementation of the Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Program; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department be and is hereby authorized and directed to enter into a not for profit services contract with The Ohio State University, for implementation of the Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) Program.
SECTION 2. That this ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period allowed by law.