The frontline of social prescribing - How do we ensure Link Workers can work safely and effectively within primary care?
Chronic Illn
; 17(4): 404-415, 2021 12.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-31623451
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
To identify the training, skills and experience social prescribing Link Workers, working with patients presenting with long-term conditions, need to carry out their role safely and effectively within primary care services.METHOD:
Qualitative data were collected from Link Workers as part of the evaluation of three social prescribing schemes. Interviews and focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed.RESULTS:
Link Workers describe the complexity of the work and the need to define the boundaries of their role within existing services. Previous life and work experience were invaluable and empathy was seen as a key skill. A variety of training was valued with counselling skills felt to be most critical. Clinical supervision and support were felt to be essential to conduct the work safely.DISCUSSION:
Social prescribing is a significant theme within UK health policy and internationally and schemes in primary care services are common. Patient accounts consistently suggest that the Link Worker is key to the success of the pathway. Link Workers can facilitate positive behaviour change; however they must be recruited, trained and supported with a clear understanding of the demands of this complex role.Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Atención Primaria de Salud
Tipo de estudio:
Qualitative_research
Límite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Chronic Illn
Asunto de la revista:
MEDICINA
Año:
2021
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Reino Unido