Health Connectors

Health Connectors are specially trained practice nurses who work one-to-one with patients and carers. They help people to develop their social support networks, especially those people who are vulnerable and at risk of ‘falling through the cracks’. This free service is offered in practices across our region. To find a practice near you, go to the My Health Connector Directory and search by health connectors. 

Social prescribing is the activity at a practice where health professionals, including GPs, link patients with non-clinical services, social groups or activities. It can be used to address a range of health issues, including chronic physical and mental health conditions, loneliness and social isolation. A GP may, for example, suggest a patient to join a local walking group to enjoy the benefits of exercise and interaction. Other terms used to refer to social prescribing are are green script or community referral. 

RACGP has recommended that social prescribing become part of routine healthcare in Australia as discussed in their article. 

More information

Contact our Healthy Ageing Team via email or by calling 4708 8100.