04/16/2025
The Community Well is focusing on the importance of the great outdoors this spring season.
Did you know??
1. Nature Prescriptions Are Being Officially Integrated into Healthcare Systems
In countries like Canada, the PaRx (Prescribe a Park) initiative, backed by the Canadian Medical Association, allows healthcare providers to prescribe time in nature. Some provinces (e.g., British Columbia, Saskatchewan) are working with Parks Canada to provide free annual park passes for patients. While not full insurance reimbursement yet, it is a step toward recognizing nature exposure as a legitimate health intervention.
Source: BC Parks Foundation - PaRx Program (2020)
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2. Insurance and Medicaid Programs in the U.S. Are Piloting Nature-Based Coverage
Some U.S. states are piloting programs where Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) include funding for non-traditional health interventions, such as nature outings or walking groups, under “Social Determinants of Health” initiatives. These pilots aim to improve mental health, reduce anxiety and depression, and support chronic disease management.
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Social Determinants of Health Initiatives
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3. Clinical Research Supports Mental and Physical Health Outcomes of Nature Exposure
Evidence shows that 120 minutes per week in nature is associated with significantly better physical and psychological health, leading to cost savings in healthcare. As a result, more insurers and healthcare systems are evaluating the inclusion of outdoor activity prescriptions to reduce reliance on medications and improve long-term outcomes.
Source: White et al., Nature, 2019; “Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing”
