Some of the most popular new year’s resolutions involve wanting to lose weight, eat better and get healthier.
The new year, and generally following a period of holiday gluttony, is the most popular time for people to try and make a fresh start.
I’m probably not alone in noticing that the gyms are busier these days than in the previous month — even at 6 a.m., which is my favourite time to go. There’s now a larger group of us vying for the beloved elliptical machines first thing in the morning.
I’m also currently trying to pawn off all the leftover holiday goodies, from dessert squares to chocolates to chip dip, in order to get it out of my fridge and away from temptation.
In an effort to stick to resolutions, there’s a whole bunch of ways to take on those challenges, joining a gym, walking to work, eating smaller portions and adding more veggies.
But what many people might not know is that, for some, the provincial government has a program to put B.C. residents on the path to healthier living. And it even can include a one-time $50 contribution towards a physical activity or nutrition program.
Be aware, however, that time may be running out for this program, which has been running since 2011. A government spokesperson said multiple times that this program is “under review” and I concluded this means “likely to be scrapped” as budgets get trimmed in preparation for the election.
The program is known as Prescription for Health and targets people who smoke, are obese, are inactive or have unhealthy eating habits to talk to their family physician about improving their health. Participants must have one or more of these risk factors to qualify and there is no minimum age for participation. Even children and adolescents can take part.
With their physician’s “prescription” citizens can access free-of-charge telephone-based support or other supports online or even through texting.
Keep in mind, this Prescription for Health must come through a family doctor, or the services cannot be accessed.
In order to receive their subsidy, Prescription for Health participants must first register in a physical activity or nutrition program and then, send their original receipt to the Ministry of Health with a completed subsidy form.
This could include a gym membership, physical-activity based recreation program or personal nutrition counselling. All programs must be delivered by a certified health and fitness professional.
In my mind, there’s nothing like a bit of free (albeit, taxpayer-funded) cold, hard cash to provide a little motivation to add some healthier habits into your life.
So if you want to take advantage of the program (remember, it may not be around much longer), contact your doctor. More information can also be found at www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca. Look for “Prescription for Health.” Information can also be obtained by calling the Ministry of Health at 1-800-465-4911.
Hope it helps with your healthy living plans for 2013.
