Current Trends and Future Directions in Urban Social Prescribing

Purpose of ReviewSocial prescribing (SP) is defined as a non-medical community referral program to support well-being and health. This review explores the current evidence about the effectiveness of SP.Recent FindingsThis review examined existing SP models that have been or are being tested to connect people to these opportunities through direct and indirect referral schemes. The review identified a fifth model that facilitates a group-based approach used to mental well-being and resilience. While the development of SP largely originates from the UK, the global interest in SP has increased, with over 31 nations reporting elements of SP.SummaryThe main goal of SP is to better integrate care between the traditional medical setting and resources available in the community and voluntary sectors. Although this review found widespread optimism around SP, there remain concerns about its effectiveness and demands for high-quality evaluations to strengthen the evidence base for SP.

Automated summary

Social prescribing (SP) is a non-medical community referral program aimed at supporting well-being and health. This review examines the current evidence on the effectiveness of SP and identifies various models that have been tested or are being tested. The global interest in SP has increased, although concerns about its effectiveness and a need for high-quality evaluations remain.