Social Prescribing and Leisure
An exciting pilot is underway funded through Western Sydney University.
Project aims
Improved patient outcomes
By addressing social determinants of health, we aim to contribute to improved health outcomes and better quality of life for residents in Western Sydney.
Enhanced Collaboration
The program will foster collaboration between healthcare providers and community organisations, creating a more wholistic and integrated approach for individuals.
Reduced Healthcare Costs
By addressing social factors that contribute to health issues, the program has the potential to reduce the burden on the healthcare system, leading to cost savings in the long run.
Expert Panel
An Expert Panel has been formed for the project with the following objectives:
To provide expert advice and experience to support in the development and implementation of Social Prescribing
To guide the strategic direction of the program, ensuring alignment with the needs and preferences and perspectives of stakeholders in Western Sydney.
To support the implementation of social prescribing, identifying potential barriers, and exploring opportunities for collaboration.
To advise on effective strategies for social prescribing promotion, recruitment and data collection within Western Sydney.
To evaluate and monitor the program's progress, impact, and outcomes, and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
Our Expert Panel and its members are co-chaired by Dr Nicole Peel and David Burns
-

Dr Nicole Peel
Western Sydney University
-

David Burns
WSYD Moving
-

Gautami Motupally
Western Sydney Health Alliance
-

Mariana Ivantsoff
AUSactive
-

Scott Walters
Went West - Western Sydney Primary Health Network
-

Ania Samarawickrama
GP Parramatta
-

Rania Matta
South Western Sydney Local Health District
-

Colleen O'Rourke
South Western Sydney Local Health District
The program will employ a mixed-methods approach, includes four phased approaches, including a literature review, a survey and interviews with GPs in Western Sydney.
This will allow us to gather quantitative data on current perspectives and practices related to social prescribing, as well as qualitative insights into the challenges and opportunities for implementation.
Project methodology
-
The project will involve conducting a systematic literature review to identify existing social prescribing models used by GP’s and their methods of implementation and populations, setting and outcomes.
-
Survey with GPs on their overall understanding of social prescribing
-
Interviews with GPs across urban and regional NSW to gain an understanding of their deeper views on social prescribing as a health intervention within their community and the current health system.
-
Co-design and Pilot of social prescribing for marginalised families with GPs within western Sydney.