Residents of Halton, Ontario, can now benefit from a unique initiative where doctors prescribe time in nature to promote better health. Through a partnership between Conservation Halton, Halton Healthcare, and PaRx, patients can receive up to 10 free visits to local conservation areas with a nature prescription.
Craig Machan, director of parks and operations with Conservation Halton, focuses on the need to interact with nature. “Walking through fresh air and unhooking from daily stress is essential for both health conditions: mental and physical,” said Machan. He stated that 75% of these prescriptions deal with mental health issues, but benefits in physical health can also be accrued, as accessible trails exist to suit all fitness types.
The program, now officially launched on December 2, has positioned nature as a critical element of health care. Jennie McCaffrey, vice president of health and education at the BC Parks Foundation, explained how connecting people with nature encourages pro-environmental behavior in the long term. “We really want nature to be recognized as the ‘fourth pillar of health,'” she said.
According to interim vice president for medical affairs at Halton Healthcare, Dr. Stephen Chin, the science behind this initiative lies in that even after a 20-minute walk under nature, cortisol levels are decreased, mental health is improved, blood pressure is decreased and people’s life expectancy may be increased. “This program can motivate healthy living and act as a stepping stone for many,” Chin said.
Patients can log their nature prescription on the PaRx website and receive their free passes. Due to its openness, most people can benefit from the program.
Tom Gannon Hamilton, a Toronto resident who recovered from severe injuries after being hit by a car, said his nature prescription helped him during his recovery. “It’s been a transformative experience,” said Hamilton. “My physical and mental health have improved significantly.”
The initiative is gaining attention beyond Halton. Gord Costie of the Hamilton Conservation Authority shared that they are considering adopting the program to connect more people with nature. “We want people to see conservation areas as spaces to sustain their health,” said Costie.
As the program grows, advocates hope it will redefine health care by emphasizing preventive, nature-based wellness solutions.