Sweden Pioneers 'Travel on Prescription' for Health and Well-being

Sweden Launches Groundbreaking 'Travel on Prescription' Initiative

Stockholm, Sweden – In a pioneering move, Sweden has officially launched 'The Swedish Prescription,' an initiative that allows medical professionals to recommend travel to the country as a method to enhance patients' health and well-being. Announced on September 23, 2025, this program positions Sweden as the world's first country where doctors can prescribe visits for therapeutic purposes, leveraging its rich natural landscapes and cultural offerings.

A New Approach to Preventive Healthcare

The initiative is rooted in extensive research and aims to integrate nature, cultural, and social experiences into preventive healthcare strategies. A global survey conducted by YouGov in June and July 2025, commissioned by Visit Sweden, revealed that nearly two-thirds (63%) of respondents would be open to spending more time in nature if prescribed by a doctor. However, most had not previously heard of such prescriptions. The health benefits of the prescribed activities have been reviewed by Professor Yvonne Forsell, a senior professor at Karolinska Institutet, one of the world's leading medical universities. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recognizes the crucial role of nature in human health and well-being.

Prescribed Activities for Enhanced Well-being

The 'Swedish Prescription' encompasses a variety of activities designed to address both physical and mental health concerns. These research-backed recommendations include:

• Forest bathing: Proven to reduce stress and lower cortisol levels.
• Sauna sessions in Lapland: Aimed at improving sleep quality.
• Cold plunges in the archipelago: Intended to enhance circulation.
• Cultural visits: Linked to reduced depression and anxiety.
• Fika breaks: Social pauses known to lower stress and boost focus.
• Sleeping under the stars: Helps to reset the circadian rhythm for better rest.

These activities capitalize on Sweden's abundant natural resources, with 70% of the country covered by forests and over 100,000 lakes, offering an ideal environment for rejuvenation.

Global Reach and Expert Endorsement

The campaign, 'The Swedish Prescription,' is a global initiative, initially launched in countries including Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, France, the US, China, and the Nordic nations. Patients worldwide can download a medical referral to discuss with their General Practitioner. Medical experts have expressed support for this innovative approach. Dr. Stacy Beller Stryer, Associate Medical Director at ParkRXAmerica, stated, 'Nature, social settings and culture have restorative powers, and evidently, Sweden has these assets in abundance.' Susanne Andersson, CEO of Visit Sweden, highlighted that 'The Swedish lifestyle naturally promotes wellbeing – from the free access to our stunning forests and lakes, to the fresh air, cooler summers, wholesome fika breaks and our vibrant cultural life.' This initiative marks a significant step in integrating wellness tourism with mainstream healthcare, offering a unique pathway to improved health.