Exploring Nature-Based Prescriptions in Canada: A Field Visit to the PaRx Programme in Vancouver

As part of the RESONATE project’s efforts to advance the use of nature-based therapies (NbTs) in healthcare and social care, Sofia Romagosa of EuroHealthNet recently conducted a field visit to Vancouver, Canada. The visit was part of Work Package 4 (WP4), which focuses on gathering qualitative data through interviews with prescribers to better understand how nature-based prescriptions are implemented in different contexts.

The purpose of the visit was to study Canada’s flagship nature prescription initiative, PaRx, led by the BC Parks Foundation. Thanks to the strong support from Dr. Melissa Lem (Director of the PaRx Programme and member of the RESONATE International Expert Advisory Board) and Laura Hergott (Manager, Healthy by Nature), the trip was highly productive and enriching.

Over the course of two weeks, Romagosa completed 11 interviews with prescribers from a range of professional backgrounds—including general practitioners, nurses, specialists, pharmacists, psychologists, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, and social workers. A few additional interviews are expected to be conducted online or in written format. The diversity of perspectives gathered will contribute to the development of a practical guide for healthcare and social care professionals on how to start or continue prescribing nature-based therapies.

During her stay, Romagosa also participated in several PaRx-related events and site visits, gaining valuable context on how nature prescriptions are applied in practice:

• A guided visit to UBC Botanical Gardens, where patients with a PaRx prescription receive free access.
• Visits to Bloedel Conservatory and VanDusen Botanical Garden, both local partners offering discounted entry for PaRx users.
• The launch event of a collaboration between the BC Parks Foundation and Vancouver Art Gallery, which now allows PaRx prescription holders free entry to the Emily Carr: Navigating an Impenetrable Landscape exhibition.
• The Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Volunteer Appreciation Evening, where Dr. Lem gave a keynote presentation on the health benefits of spending time in nature.
• A local event on Exercise on Prescription, in which the PaRx programme was featured.

The BC Parks Foundation provided generous logistical support, offering access to office space and meeting rooms for conducting interviews. This collaboration enabled deeper engagement with both programme staff and community partners.

Romagosa also had the chance to experience Vancouver’s renowned natural beauty during her spare time. The city, in the midst of a spring bloom, offered the perfect setting to reflect on the connection between nature and wellbeing.

This visit represents a key step forward for WP4 and the broader RESONATE mission. The insights gathered will directly inform ongoing analysis and support the creation of tools to motivate and guide prescribers in integrating nature into healthcare practices—helping to ensure that these approaches are accessible and equitable for all.

Stay tuned for the next updates from the RESONATE project as this work continues to grow across Europe and beyond.

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Be sure to follow both PaRx and BC Parks Foundation on social media!

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