OhioHealth Wellness on Wheels Launches Walk with a Doc Program in Athens

OhioHealth Wellness on Wheels is inviting residents in Athens to take a step toward better health with Walk with a Doc, a community walking program that connects healthcare professionals with participants to walk, learn and socialize. The program kicks off on Saturday, April 18 at 9 a.m., and will continue on the third Saturday of every month at the OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital Walking Trail, 55 Hospital Drive, Athens, OH. Attendees will meet behind the hospital at the Wellness on Wheels mobile unit for check-in.

Walk with a Doc is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire communities through movement and conversation.

“This program has had tremendous participation and success in hundreds of cities around the world,” said Jill Porter, DO, FACOFP. “I’m very pleased to bring this exciting and simple program to Athens and provide a unique and fun way to improve the health of our community.”

The walk is free and open to the community. Participants can walk at their own pace and distance, enjoy discussions with local healthcare professionals, and have the opportunity to ask questions during the walk. The first walk on April 18 will focus on stress awareness, in recognition of national Stress Awareness Month.

“Walk with a Doc is honored to team up with OhioHealth Wellness on Wheels. By incorporating this program into the practice, OhioHealth is demonstrating an exceptional level of care and commitment to their community,” said Dr. David Sabgir, founder of Walk with a Doc.

According to the American Heart Association, walking as little as 30 minutes a day can provide the following benefits:  
•            Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels  
•            Help maintain a healthy body weight and lower the risk of obesity  
•            Enhance mental well-being  
•            Reduce the risk of osteoporosis

Athens joins a growing list of communities worldwide that have started local Walk with a Doc programs. Walk with a Doc was started by David Sabgir, MD, a cardiologist at OhioHealth.  He has walked with patients and community members nearly every weekend since 2005.

Community members can learn more or register for an upcoming walk at https://walkwithadoc.org/join-a-walk/locations/athens-ohio/.