Walk with a Doc builds community, connection and health

Since launching the program in South Puget Sound last March, Walk with a Doc has become a meaningful way to bring community members together for exercise, education and personal connection.

Inspired by a need for connection

The program was spearheaded by Providence Medical Group physician Dr. Rachel Ballou, who was inspired to create more opportunities for face-to-face interaction following the Covid-19 pandemic. As she cared for patients in the years after lockdown, Dr. Ballou noticed many were experiencing increased loneliness and social isolation. She wanted to create a welcoming environment where people could connect with others in their community while improving their health.

Dr. Ballou first learned about Walk with a Doc at a medical conference in Colorado and was immediately drawn to the program's mission. The international initiative combines physical activity with acacessible health education, giving participants the opportunity to walk alongside healthcare professionals while learning practical wellness tips from trusted sources.

Since bringing the program to South Puget Sound, Dr. Ballou has worked to build a series of community walks that encourage participants to get outside, stay active and engage with one another. An important component of each event is a brief health presentation from a local provider, offering attendees valuable information on a variety of topics.

An opportunity for providers to get involved

To expand the program's reach and educational impact, Dr. Ballou is seeking additional providers who are interested in delivering a 5-10 minute health talk at future events. Participants have been highly engaged and eager to learn, with recent presentations covering topics such as hydration, GLP-1 medications and vaccines.

For Providence providers, volunteering at Walk with a Doc is also an opportunity to earn citizenship hours while promoting community wellness. The event offers a unique chance to connect with patients and community members outside of the clinical setting, support healthy lifestyles and enjoy time outdoors.

Providers interested in participating are encouraged to reach out to Rachel Ballou and help continue growing this impactful community program.

Our next walk will take place Sept. 12 at Woodland Creek Community Park, with the following events on the second Saturday of each month. Providers and their families are welcome to join even if they are not giving a health talk at that event.

To learn more about the program, visit Lacey, Washington – Walk with a Doc.

Special thanks to the Providence Foundation for making this partnershup with Walk with a Doc possible and helping support the health and wellness of our community.