HOT TOPIC: Social Prescribing: The OT Role You Were Made For

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2026

4:10 PM – 4:40 PM

Course Description

Social prescribing (SP) is an approach to health and well-being that involves “prescribing” non-medical, community-based programs and resources. The SP approach seeks to connect people to activities, groups, and services in their communities that will meet social and emotional needs impacting their overall health and well-being. While SP has only recently gained traction in the broader US healthcare field, occupational therapy’s deep roots in person-centered, holistic care and meaningful occupation align closely with its core values and principles. Despite this natural fit, occupational therapy practitioner (OTP) involvement in SP remains inconsistent and underrecognized.

 SP is an approach that is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing loneliness, isolation, mental health challenges, chronic conditions, or complex social needs; populations that OTPs frequently serve. This positions OTPs as natural link workers within SP models, bridging the gap between medical care and community-based support.  OTPs have a meaningful opportunity to expand their role in SP through educating healthcare professionals on its benefits, integrating SP literature into OT curricula, developing fieldwork and doctoral capstone experiences centered on SP, and actively engaging with SP networks/conferences. OTPs are well-positioned to make significant contributions that enhance SP initiatives and create lasting positive impact on individuals and communities. The time to get involved is now.

Speakers

Content Level

Introductory: This level assumes the audience has little or no information regarding the content area. This level assumes the audience has little or no information regarding the content area.

Practice Areas

Community-based Practice; Emerging Practice Area; Health and Wellness