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Table 2 Feasibility of an SPLS

From: Developing a social prescribing local system in a European Mediterranean country: a feasibility study to promote active and healthy aging

Survey

On-the-job training

Focus groups and interviews

• 64.6% had never heard of the concept of SP;

• Empathy and acceptance of SP were significantly correlated positively;

• 69.0% of the participants were unsatisfied with their knowledge of SP, 78.4% unsatisfied with how to apply it as a therapeutic resource, within their specific context;

• 75.0% of the participants admit that they often or very often are confronted with non-clinical complaints;

• More than 75% agree with the prescription of these activities: social activities; community physical activities; Artistic and creative activities; Technical/technological activities; Protection and personal development activities; Cultural deepening activities; Touristic activities;

• 90.8% considered that receiving automatic notifications recalling SP will be a facilitator factor;

• 95.4% view the contribution to improving patient’s satisfaction as a facilitator factor;

• More than 85.0% of participants considered that the human and community resources’ stability were facilitators of SP.

• 53.9% of participants rated the training as “good” and the remaining 46.2% as “Excellent”;

• After the training, all participants considered themselves able to be social prescribers;

• Participants manifested the desire to replicate the training to other colleagues who expressed an interest in SP.

• Patient interview:

No knowledge of the concept of SP but recognized its relevance to both physical and mental health levels;

Physical activity, diet, intellectual activities, and even pharmacological therapy were recognized as important elements to promote and maintain health;

Many activities were identified as suitable in the scope of SP, namely: physical activity/exercise, traditional games, outdoor activities adapted to the local community (fishing, beach activities), among others.

• HP’ Focus Group:

Suggested activities: dance and ballet classes; trails, walks, runs; yoga classes, pilates; sewing activities; picnics with patients and HP; swimming pools;

Positive aspects of the pilot study: good receptivity; Recognition of great potential; Potential patients´ satisfaction;

General satisfaction with the training program, and suggestions to replicate it to expand the number of prescribers, as other colleagues showed interest in collaborating with SP.

• Community Provider Interview:

Provider showed interest, availability, and enthusiasm regarding the collaboration with SP.

  1. SPLS social prescribing local system, SP social prescribing, HP health professionals