Advancing understanding of social prescribing in the Western Pacific region.

Social prescribing is an approach in which trusted individuals in clinical and community settings identify patients’ health-related social needs and refer them to community-based activities and services. It can help to reduce social isolation, improve physical and mental health, and enhance overall wellbeing. Current social prescribing programmes are often targeted at specific groups, such as older adults, people with chronic conditions, or those experiencing social isolation.