Perceptions of Pharmacy Involvement in Social Prescribing Pathways in England, Scotland and Wales

Andrea Dj Taylor,Gina M Nicholls,Denise Taylor

doi:10.26686/wgtn.12408989

Abstract

Social prescribing is increasingly viewed as a non-pharmacological option to address psychosocial consequences of social isolation, loneliness and bereavement; key contributors to poor mental health and wellbeing. Our study explored experiences and attitudes of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to social prescribing in England, Scotland, and Wales, using an on-line survey. (Ethical approval, University of Bath, November 2017). The electronic survey was distributed to pharmacists registered with Royal Pharmaceutical Society local practice forum network groups in England, Scotland, and Wales, and pharmacy technicians via social media platforms. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and free text by thematic analysis. One hundred and twenty respondents took part in the survey; (94.6% pharmacists and 5.4% pharmacy technicians). Responses indicated a lack of knowledge and experience with social prescribing; however, there was enthusiasm for pharmacists and the wider pharmacy team to be involved in local social prescribing pathways. Respondents believed they were well positioned within the community and consequently able to be involved in identifying individuals that may benefit. Barriers to involvement, included time, funding and training while enablers were pharmacist skills and the need within the community for social prescribing. There is a willingness in pharmacy, to be involved in social prescribing, however further research is required to enable pharmacy to be full participants in social prescribing pathways.

Highlights

Evidence suggests that socioeconomic factors can have the greatest effect on health and wellbeing, accounting for 40% of all influences on the individual [1]
This is a small study with a low response rate and the data is not generalizable, the findings present a snapshot of current views and experiences of the pharmacy team on social prescribing
This study demonstrated the views of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians around social prescribing (SP)

Summary

Introduction

Evidence suggests that socioeconomic factors can have the greatest effect on health and wellbeing, accounting for 40% of all influences on the individual [1]. Other factors include social isolation, bereavement, and debt [2]. This implies that clinical services are not always most appropriate for helping individuals whose ailment may not have a clinical cause and dealing with the underlying cause may be more effective than providing clinical treatment. General practitioners (GPs) in England reported spending 20% of their time dealing with non-health related matters such as relationship issues and housing [3], providing further evidence why dealing to with these factors via social prescribing (SP) has been viewed as an option to decrease GP’s time spent on non-medical issues.

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Discussion

Conclusion