Social prescribing for individuals with mental health problems: a qualitative study of barriers and enablers experienced by general practitioners.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is growing evidence for the use of social prescribing as a means to improve the mental health of patients. However, there are gaps in understanding the barriers and enablers faced by General Practitioners (GPs) when engaging in social prescribing for patients with mental health problems.

Methods

This study uses a qualitative approach involving one-to-one interviews with GPs from across the UK. The COM-B model was used to elucidate barriers and enablers, and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and a Behaviour Change Theory and Techniques tool was used to identify interventions that could address these.

Results

GPs recognised the utility of social prescribing in addressing the high levels of psychosocial need they saw in their patient population, an

SUBMITTER: Aughterson H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7507286 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature