Doctors in Halton, Ontario, are now prescribing nature as a way to improve patients’ quality of life. Through a partnership between Conservation Halton, Halton Healthcare, and the PaRx program, patients with a nature prescription can access up to 10 free visits to conservation areas, including Mount Nemo Conservation Area. The initiative aims to enhance well-being by encouraging people to reconnect with the natural world.

Craig Machan, director of parks and operations at Conservation Halton, emphasizes the vital role nature plays in improving overall health. He notes that 75 percent of nature prescriptions are issued for mental health support, but they also provide opportunities to boost physical wellness.

Patients receiving a nature prescription can visit the PaRx website to select their region and park, then register their prescription to claim their free pass. According to program representatives, the process to obtain a prescription is straightforward, ensuring accessibility for those who could benefit.

Toronto resident Tom Gannon Hamilton credits the program with playing a significant role in his recovery after being struck by a car over a year ago. The accident left him with fractures, stitches, and bruises, resulting in a lengthy healing process. While not yet fully recovered, Hamilton says the program has made a noticeable difference in his physical and mental well-being. A musician and writer who already had an appreciation for the outdoors, he found that structured access to nature improved various aspects of his life, helping him function better overall.

The program launched in Halton on December 2, 2024, serving residents of Burlington, Oakville, Milton, and Halton Hills. It has been active in other parts of Canada since its creation by the BC Parks Foundation in 2020. According to Jennie McCaffrey, vice president of health and education at the foundation, the initiative not only fosters personal health but also promotes a greater appreciation for conservation efforts.