Case studies of 23 U.S. social prescribing programs highlight common implementation strategies, challenges, and opportunities to support future program development and scale-up. 

Background 

Social isolation and unmet social needs continue to affect health and well-being in the U.S., prompting growing interest in social prescribing as a strategy to connect individuals with community-based supports. This report examines 23 arts, culture, and social prescribing programs operating across 11 states in the U.S. The resource compares program design, participant populations, referral pathways, activities, funding models, and implementation experiences to inform the development and expansion of similar programs across diverse community settings. 

About this Resource  

This report is intended for health care organizations, community-based organizations, and policymakers interested in developing or expanding social prescribing. Drawing on surveys and interviews with program staff, it presents 23 case studies spanning arts, culture, zoo visits, and music. The report describes programs’ target populations, design, referral workflows, funding, evaluation methods, and implementation barriers and facilitators. It highlights how programs often rely on blended funding approaches with varied requirements, implementation structure, and reporting expectations. The report also highlights how organizations have navigated these differences and adapted social prescribing models to their local contexts. Practical insights are provided for organizations developing new programs, including lessons on partnership building, staffing, training, participant engagement, and sustainability.  

Program/Policy Takeaways 

Social prescribing programs are expanding across the U.S. using a variety of implementation frameworks and funding mechanisms. Health care organizations, community organizations, and policymakers developing social prescribing initiatives can use this resource to identify promising strategies for implementing and sustaining social prescribing programs.