In recent years, healthcare has been shifting from a purely medical model to one that embraces a broader, more holistic approach. Central to this transformation is the concept of Social Prescribing; rapidly gaining traction as a key component of modern healthcare.
Social prescribing is a way for healthcare professionals to refer patients to a range of local, non-clinical services. These might include activities such as joining exercise classes, participating in art groups, or volunteering within the community. It’s based on the understanding that health and wellbeing are influenced by a range of social, economic, and environmental factors, and that addressing these factors can have a profound impact on a person’s overall health.
This approach recognises that chronic health conditions and mental health issues often stem from more than just physical symptoms — they can be exacerbated by loneliness, financial stress, lack of purpose, or poor living conditions.
For example, a patient experiencing anxiety might be prescribed medication, but without considering factors like social isolation or job-related stresses, and therefore the root cause remains unaddressed.
Social prescribing is not just beneficial for patients — it’s also a game-changer for healthcare systems. As the NHS faces increasing pressure from rising patient numbers and limited resources, Social prescribing offers an innovative solution to alleviate some of this strain.
Healthwatch’s article reports that around 1 in 5 GP visits are not medical related, and includes issues such as loneliness, financial problems, housing, education or employment status. In 2017, a review carried out by the University of Westminster found that individuals receiving social prescribing support had 28% fewer GP consultations and 24% fewer A&E visits compared to those not participating in the program – indicating better health outcomes for these patients. Evidence also suggests individuals participating in social prescribing programs often experience noticeable improvements in their anxiety levels.
A case study of a social prescribing programme in Shropshire found a 40% reduction in GP consultations among participants, indicating that when people are supported to manage their own health and wellbeing, they are less likely to rely on primary care services. Given this the NHS estimates that social prescribing could save up to £300 million in appointment and prescription costs annually if implemented on a broader and efficient scale.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of mental wellbeing and the devastating effects of social isolation. Social prescribing offers a lifeline by connecting people with community activities that can reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental health.
For example, joining a walking group or art class not only provides physical exercise but also creates opportunities for social interaction and personal fulfilment. This combination of physical, social, and emotional support is key to managing conditions like depression and anxiety, where medication alone may not be sufficient.
While the benefits of social prescribing are clear, there are still challenges to its widespread adoption. One major barrier is the need for greater awareness and understanding among both healthcare professionals and the public.
To overcome this, it’s essential to invest in training and education for healthcare providers, as well as to develop clear guidelines and referral pathways. Additionally, building partnerships between healthcare providers and community organisations is crucial to ensuring that social prescribing services are accessible and effective.
Another challenge is the need for robust evaluation frameworks to measure the impact of social prescribing. While anecdotal evidence and small-scale studies are encouraging, more comprehensive research is needed to quantify its long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness.
As healthcare continues to advance, there is a growing awareness that promoting overall wellbeing is just as important as treating illness. In the future, we can anticipate the evolving integration of social prescribing into mainstream healthcare, driven by digital innovations and strengthened community partnerships. Technology will act as a key enabler of this shift, playing a crucial role in the expansion of social prescribing. Digital tools, such as IEG4’s Social prescribing solution streamline the process for healthcare professionals to connect patients with appropriate community services, efficiently matching and directing individuals to personalised activities and support groups that cater to their specific needs and preferences.
In conclusion, the future of social prescribing lies in the seamless blend of healthcare and technology, empowering both patients and providers to prioritize holistic health. As digital platforms become more integral, they will drive more efficient and personalised connections between individuals and community services, ultimately leading to better health outcomes. By fostering stronger collaborations between healthcare and local support networks, we can create a more proactive and inclusive approach to wellbeing, ensuring that every patient receives the care they truly need to thrive.
