Physicians at Boston Medical Center (BMC) are promoting healthy living and expanding access to affordable transportation for low-income Bostonians thanks to Prescribe-a-Bike, a new initiative launched by BMC and the City of Boston.
Through Prescribe-a-Bike, physicians can write prescriptions for memberships to Hubway, Boston’s bike-sharing program. Patients pay $5 for an annual membership, compared with the normal cost of $85. Membership allows for unlimited rides that last 30 minutes or less. Enrollees also receive a free helmet.
According to Boston magazine, to qualify, patients must be Boston residents, at least 16 years old, and receiving a form of public assistance or have a household income that’s no more than 400 percent of the federal poverty level.
“Obesity is a significant and growing health concern for our city, particularly among low-income Boston residents,” BMC President and CEO Kate Walsh said in a statement. “Regular exercise is key to combating this trend, and Prescribe-a-Bike is one important way our caregivers can help patients get the exercise they need to be healthy.”
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