With Social Prescribing, Hanging Out, Movement and Arts are Doctor's Order

Across the globe — and increasingly in the U.S. — health professionals are turning to social prescribing as a powerful complement to traditional care. This approach connects patients to activities like group cycling, music, arts, and volunteering to improve physical and mental health. As detailed in Julia Hotz’s The Connection Cure, social prescriptions have helped patients lose weight, manage chronic disease, reduce loneliness, and build lasting community connections.

Health systems in countries like the U.K. and Canada report improved health outcomes and cost savings. With over 250 providers in the U.S. adopting the model, social prescribing is gaining traction as a meaningful public health strategy. Ready the full story from NPR here.