Journal Article (Australian)
Published: 26 Feb 2025
Brief Summary:
Developing a Consensus-Based Nature Prescribing Framework for Australian Healthcare: A Delphi Study
Using a Delphi technique a nature prescribing framework was established that would offer a structured approach to integrating nature-based activities into health practices, addressing both individual and community health needs.
What is the aim?
This study aims to develop and validate a nature prescribing framework tailored for the Australian healthcare context, employing a Delphi methodology to harness expert consensus.
Results/Outcomes:
Results: Sixteen experts participated in the first Delphi round, with 13 completing the second round. Participants reached consensus on five essential domains of the nature prescribing framework, which included Community: consultation and customisation, Systems: building partnerships and networks, Prescribers: cultivating awareness and capacity, Providing prescriptions: psychosocial foundations and External settings: interfacing social and natural environments. Perceived barriers and enablers to application were considered within the framework, including contextual and environmental factors, awareness and capacity among prescribers and public, and the role of infrastructure support.
Conclusion: The nature prescribing framework offers a structured approach to integrating nature-based activities into health practices, addressing both individual and community health needs. It is adaptable to various Australian settings, promoting broader implementation of nature-based prescriptions. Future research should focus on implementing and evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of the framework in diverse demographic and geographic contexts.