Healthcare

Study finds strong support for nature-based care in health sector

Published: July 23, 2025

Ritchelle Drilon

Healthcare

Study finds strong support for nature-based care in health sector

Ritchelle Drilon

Nearly all allied health professionals believe nature-based therapy can treat physical and mental health conditions, yet significant barriers prevent its widespread use in Australian healthcare, new research reveals.

A University of Adelaide and University of South Australia study found 97% of allied health professionals support using outdoor environments to prevent and manage health conditions, while 94% regularly recommend time outdoors to clients.

The research, published in Health and Place, surveyed 77 professionals including psychologists, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and exercise physiologists.

Despite overwhelming professional support, the study identified substantial obstacles preventing nature-based therapy from becoming routine care.

“Allied health professionals can play an important role in improving people’s access to and use of nature, to benefit their health and wellbeing,” said lead author Dr Jessica Stanhope, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Adelaide.

“Whether it’s persistent pain, high blood pressure, respiratory issues, or depression, allied health professionals recognise the therapeutic potential of time spent in nature.”

However, Dr Stanhope noted the gap between belief and practice: “But despite their support, barriers such as limited access to green spaces, mobility issues, patient safety concerns, and even scepticism from other professionals can prevent nature-based therapies from being used.”

The study identified multiple challenges blocking implementation. Professional resistance includes lack of awareness about evidence supporting nature-based approaches, while environmental factors encompass weather, poor infrastructure, and lack of inclusive design.

Client-related barriers involve concerns about motivation, ability, or perceived credibility of nature therapies.

More than 70% of allied health professionals had advocated for providing and improving natural environments, with 55% directly involved in efforts to make outdoor spaces more accessible for therapy.

The research suggests alternatives when outdoor access is impossible. “Even when patients can’t physically get outdoors, we know that exposure to nature – through images, sounds, scents, or simply viewing natural scenes – can still be beneficial,” Dr Stanhope said.

“This is where community gardens, indoor green spaces in aged care facilities, and nature-based learning activities in schools and childcare settings are so valuable.”

“Through activities like walking outside, gardening, or even playing on a jungle gym, people are doing everyday skills, building their confidence, capacity and social connection.”

Co-researcher Professor Mary Butler from UniSA emphasised the need for systematic change across healthcare delivery.

“We need to translate the research into practical strategies so that nature-based activities become part of standard care,” Professor Butler said.

The study calls for infrastructure improvements and sector-wide education. “That includes improving outdoor spaces through better paths, seating, shade, and fencing, and boosting awareness across the health sector and community about the benefits of nature for wellbeing,” Professor Butler said.

“With the right support, everyone – including older adults and people with disability – can access the outdoors and its health benefits.”

The research represents the first comprehensive study examining allied health professionals’ attitudes toward nature-based therapy in Australia. It highlights a significant disconnect between professional recognition of nature’s therapeutic benefits and the practical ability to implement such treatments.

The findings suggest that while the evidence base for nature-based interventions continues to grow, systemic changes in healthcare infrastructure, professional education and interdisciplinary collaboration are needed to realise the potential of outdoor therapy.

Ritchelle Drilon

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Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.

Study finds strong support for nature-based care in health sector

Ritchelle Drilon

Ritchelle Drilon

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