NHS Orkney announced on Thursday that they have teamed up with RSPB Scotland and nature conservation programme, Species on the Edge, for the initiative. It is hoped nature prescriptions will help tackle a range of conditions such as high blood pressure and anxiety, and improve sleep quality, memory and concentration, and the immune system. Patients are given a nature prescription calendar, which suggests seasonal activities using local knowledge.
Suggested activities include listening out for different bird calls, selecting an outdoor spot close to home to regularly sit, and keeping a nature diary. After first being trialled in Shetland and across five GP practices in Edinburgh, 74% of patients reported having benefitted from the prescription, and 91% of health professionals stated that they would continue to offer nature prescriptions. Dr Brunt, GP at Skerryvore Practice, said: “Myself and other local doctors love the newly developed Orkney nature prescription calendar and can’t wait to introduce it to our patients during consultations.
“We are confident that nature prescribing will enhance our management of a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. Patients are therefore encouraged to ask their doctor or nurse about nature prescribing during discussion of treatment options for any new or long-term health condition.” Laura Skaife-Knight, NHS Orkney chief executive, said: “I am delighted to see the nature prescription calendar launching here in Orkney.
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