It takes more than medicine to heal.
Social Prescribing is an innovative approach that connects individuals to activities, groups, and services in their community to address practical, social, and emotional needs that impact health and wellbeing.
Instead of a drug or medication, doctors around the world are now giving their patients a new type of prescription. They’re prescribing that their patients go to a museum, listen to a concert, or spend time in nature.
This approach is embedded in healthcare systems in many parts of the world.
Much of what we know about Social Prescribing is based out of the U.K. General practitioners (or primary care providers) refer patients to Link Workers. Link Workers meet with patients to assess their unique needs and connect them with non-clinical community resources such as painting, dance, music, gardening, walking, volunteering, or nature-based activities.
BGF supports children, caregivers, and the community through healing arts programming and social prescribing initiatives.
Our initiatives include cultivation of the medical community, nonprofits, government officials, insurance companies, and healing arts professionals to accelerate learning and awareness of Social Prescribing in Hampton Roads. In September 2024, BGF will host a roundtable convening with community stakeholders to discuss and explore Social Prescribing implementation. Through year-round data collection and analysis, we will continue our research on the effectiveness of social prescriptions, as well as collaborating in the community to develop sustainable models.
Social Prescribing is a global movement becoming more mainstream in the U.S.
While not yet adopted in the U.S. healthcare system, Social Prescribing is gaining traction through non-profit organizations. The Benjamin Goldberg Foundation is leading the Hampton Roads region in raising awareness and implementation of Social Prescribing initiatives.
Read BGF articles about Social Prescribing:
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