Potential lateral and upstream consequences in the development and implementation of social prescribing in Australia

Social determinants of health, such as social connection, education, housing, and socioeconomic status, have a significant effect on health and are underlying factors contributing to health inequity. In Australia, despite high levels of health in the general population by world standards, inequities continue to be experienced by many, such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, those living in rural, regional, or remote areas, people living with mental illness or disability, sole parents, and those with low socioeconomic status. One way to address social determinants of health is through social prescribing, which involves referring people to services and supports to address social needs such as food, housing, and financial insecurity, and social isolation/loneliness...