Designing acceptable, feasible and engaging social prescribing pathways: The case of connecting from general practice to ‘Golf for Health’

Abstract

Background Globally social prescribing (SP) is receiving increasing attention for its role in health and social care. There is little evidence and a call for consideration on a seldom considered and hugely important aspect of SP schemes – the connection process (identification, enhancing likelihood of behaviour change, and connection). This was a novel study aiming to design an acceptable, feasible and engaging process for connecting individuals from general practice to a free golf programme in Scotland. Methods A two-phase participatory approach drawing on the double diamond process of design was utilised in the study. Phase 1 ‘Discover to Define’ comprised an exploratory survey to determine views on potential barriers, facilitators and connection process options. Phase 2 ‘Define to Develop’ comprised online interactive workshops defining the options. Participants were key stakeholders including GP practice staff (survey n = 9, workshop n = 2), golf club staff (n = 10; n = 4), community link workers (CLW) (n = 2; n = 0), and members of the public (n = 9; n = 10). The data was synthesised using a visual mapping exercise guided by a framework of the three elements of connection. Summaries generated were validated by participants. Results A need and benefit for flexibility in the connection process is key and a single ‘one size fits all’ pathway was not suitable for the SP of golf scheme. A connection process map outlining an approach with multiple options across an individual’s connection journey – with different combinations of options constituting different connection pathways - was designed to overcome barriers identified (e.g. uncertainty, competency, time, lack of CLW) in connecting patients to the golf programme. Suggested options not currently used in identifying, supporting and connecting the individual included practice issued lifestyle survey, text appointment and both supported and self-connection options. Conclusions The next phase of the research programme will utilise the developed conceptual connection process map assessing the acceptability and feasibility of implementing, a flexible process of connection for the SP of golf scheme. Regarding the wider context, we encourage researchers, policymakers and practitioners working in SP across the globe to test and further develop the conceptual connection process map in designing connection pathways for their specific context(s).