Introduction

The European Union defines "Green Care" as nature-assisted health promotion and complementary therapy. Far Eastern Memorial Hospital (FEMH) in Banqiao, New Taipei, Taiwan, began incorporating Green Care into its psychiatric daycare centers to improve the health of patients and staff. Our first horticultural group therapy launched in 2009, and by 2016, we extended horticultural therapy to our Employee Assistance Programs. The Green Care model supports mental health, promotes overall well-being, and has since expanded into community health initiatives.

 

Methods

We introduced the Green Care model to the community, allowing residents to connect with plants, life, and culture, enhancing their bonds with others and their families. Horticultural therapy was offered both at the hospital and in the community to alleviate mental illness and stabilize well-being. Beyond patients, the program helped participants engage with plants and improve self-efficacy. We tracked the sessions, participant numbers, and satisfaction survey results.

 

Results

The application of horticultural therapy will be introduced in three areas: inpatients, outpatients, and the community.

 

Conclusion

Horticultural therapy has been practiced in Taiwan for nearly twenty years, with our hospital implementing it for sixteen years. Today, medical prescriptions extend beyond medication to include rehabilitation, psychological treatment, lifestyle changes, and participation in health-promoting activities. Our hospital aims to fulfill its role as a medical center by fostering further collaboration between our healthcare system and green care initiatives.

 

Keywords
Green care, green prescription, horticultural therapy