CASE AND COMMENTARY: PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLE What Are “Social Prescriptions” and How Should They Be Integrated Into Care Plans?

Abstract

Health consequences of social isolation and loneliness include worsened morbidity and mortality. Despite wide recognition of this fact, little is understood about how to intervene successfully. “Social prescribing” is one approach by which clinicians can intervene on social determinants of health, which include social isolation and loneliness. This commentary on a case defines social prescribing and suggests how to integrate it into practice.