Social prescribing: connecting patients with community support
18 Aug 2026
It can help people facing issues such as social isolation, difficulty getting around, low physical activity, stress, mental wellbeing concerns, housing problems or other practical challenges.
Why does it matter in general practice?
Social prescribing can complement clinical care by helping address some of the social factors that affect a person’s health. It may also help reduce pressure on health services by connecting people with appropriate community-based support.
National modelling by the National Academy for Social Prescribing in 2022 suggested that expanding social prescribing could lead to millions fewer GP appointments each year.
UK programs have also reported reductions of up to 40% in GP visits and 25% in emergency department presentations.
The RACGP recognises social prescribing as an emerging approach that may help address loneliness in primary care.
Social prescribing is being explored through local programs, including a pilot program run by the Lurnea Community Hub in South Western Sydney.
Social prescribing: connecting patients with community support
Source: South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Practice Pulse, 19 August 2026; World Health Organization; National Academy for Social Prescribing; RACGP.