Program

Walk with a Doc

Columbus, OH

Founded in 2005 by cardiologist Dr. David Sabgir


About

Walk with a Doc was created to solve the epidemic of sedentary lifestyles, but over time it has become clear that the program also affords a viable solution to the social isolation epidemic. Walk with a Doc solves myriad problems, the most potent of which is returning healthcare providers to their intended place as healers - of mind, body and community. Eighty-four percent of physician walk leaders share that Walk with a Doc programming increases the opportunity for meaningful social interaction; a critical realization given isolation is increasingly identified as a significant health risk factor.

Walk with a Doc is an innovative program centered on group physical activity, social connectedness, and equipping participants with health-related knowledge. This solution is simple for leaders to execute with the tools, support and advice Walk with a Doc provides.

Categories ProgramAdultsChildren & YouthCommunity & AdvocacyMental Health

Program Details

About the Program

In the words of Shigeru Miyamoto, “The best ideas solve multiple problems at the same time.” Walk with a Doc was created to solve the epidemic of sedentary lifestyles, but over time it has become clear that the program also affords a viable solution to the social isolation epidemic. National statistics (U.S.) show that over 80% of adults get little or no regular physical activity, even though 150 minutes of physical activity a week can help prevent/treat more than 40 major diseases including but not limited to dementia, 13 different types of cancers, cardiovascular disease, and mental illness. Similarly, a growing number of Americans report feelings of loneliness, which often result in health ailments related to sleep impairments, mental well-being, cognitive functioning, and physical health (e.g. obesity). Experts predict that by 2035, 75% of adults in the United States will be overweight or obese, which will create a significant drain on the financial resources of the healthcare system and increase the tragic impact of preventable disease. Walk with a Doc solves myriad problems, the most potent of which is returning healthcare providers to their intended place as healers - of mind, body and community.

Walk with a Doc is an innovative program centered on group physical activity, social connectedness, and equipping participants with health-related knowledge. Walk with a Doc provides healthcare professionals with a turnkey, evidence-based program for their entire community. Walk leaders host monthly, at minimum, ongoing events that begin with a brief, health provider-led discussion on a current health-related topic. Conversations continue as the participants take to trail/path and walk for the remainder of the hour, typically 30-45 minutes. Often the walks occur in nature, affording additional health benefits to participants.

There is definitive data showing that even a small increase in physical activity leads to a significant reduction in disease and healthcare costs. Eighty-four percent of physician walk leaders share that Walk with a Doc programming increases the opportunity for meaningful social interaction; a critical realization given isolation is increasingly identified as a significant health risk factor. This solution is simple for leaders to execute with the tools, support and advice Walk with a Doc provides. Importantly, the program is free and accessible for walkers so they can easily enjoy the benefits of the program.

List of Services Offered

More than a walk, the Walk with a Doc program encompasses and delivers four components: physical activity, health education, social connection, time in nature. More information about the services provided by Walk with a Doc is available here.

Cost to Participate

There is no cost for walker participation. A nominal fee to establish a Walk with a Doc chapter in a community is usually covered by supporting hospitals or health agencies. Funding assistance is available as needed.

Contact Rachael Habash, Chief Operating Officer (614) 714-0407 www.walkwithadoc.org

Staff Composition

The three tiered staff composition associated with the programming are:

  • Walk with a Doc events can be led by a medical professional with an advanced medical degree such as a Physician, Resident Physician, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or someone with a doctorate degree in an allied healthcare field, such as DDS, PharmD, Psy.D, DPT, OTD, DPM.
  • Just Walk events can be led by other licensed healthcare providers, including a registered nurse, registered dietitian, medical social worker, respiratory therapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech & language pathologist, licensed mental health counselor, and athletic trainer.
  • Walk with a Future Doc events can be led by medical students under the supervision of a faculty member or licensed healthcare provider.

All Walk leaders go through training during the onboarding process.

To note: Licensed healthcare providers who want to lead a walk but are not on the above lists, are encouraged to email Walk with a Doc to determine eligibility to provide the health talk.

Related Articles and Studies

Recent Case Studies

Low wooden balance beam structures for children are scattered throughout a grove of fledgling trees. Full-grown trees stand tall in the back of the grove.

Place

The Orchard at White Street Park

The Orchard at White Street Park was designed to combine the enjoyment of edible fruit with play features rooted in the natural playground movement. 

Vibrant plants and trees with fall foliage border a playground. The playground colors are muted in shades of green and browns.

Place

Ed Barsis Park at Four Hills Village

Located in a part of Albuquerque, NM that previously lacked public parks, the Ed Barsis neighborhood park is an inviting ecosystem of play that provides children and adults with limitless sense of connection and exploration.

A young boy with blonde hair sits in a small plastic sled in a shallow stream surrounded by lush foliage. Holding a stick and wearing a red shirt and black pants he is enjoying an outdoor adventure.

Program

ConnectByNature Therapy Services

ConnectbyNature Therapy Services provides programs to promote biophilic health™ and optimize child development by fostering a deep connection between children and nature.