In this episode, Shan talks to Dr. Mohan Sekeram about Social Prescribing and the positive impact of having the social prescriber embedded as a part of the primary care team. This engaging episode provides an invaluable insight into the social prescribing pilot that has been running in Merton, and the positive data set and evidence confirming the benefits of embedding a link worker within a practice.   ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Mohan Sekeram has been working as a GP for over 10 years in East Merton, London, and is the Clinical Lead for Social Prescribing for Merton and Wandsworth CCGs. Mohan led on the development and implantation of the Merton Model of Social Prescribing which aims to address the social determinants of health. This model has resulted in significant reductions in GP and Accident and Emergency attendances, and has demonstrated a positive impact on patient measures of wellbeing. He is passionate about harnessing the opportunities in the local community and wants to ensure the local voluntary sector receives adequate support to help empower them and build resilience. Mohan is also a member of Merton LMC and a GP trainer. He grew up in South West London and in his spare time enjoys many types of exercise and is a keen AFC Wimbledon fan.    KEY TAKEAWAYS A person's health and well-being are affected by many factors, including social factors such as employment, education, bereavement, relationships and isolation. Social factors can manifest as physical symptoms resulting in individuals being in primary care. Social Prescribing enables a social prescriber working within the practice to spend time exploring the root cause with the patient and finding out what services in the community can be effectively targeted to support their need and get them on the right journey. Often patients who have their social root cause issue identified and tackled appropriately, find the physical symptoms are also resolved. Having a GP endorsement makes it easier for individuals to take up the opportunity of the link worker. Getting the link worker, the social prescriber, embedded in the practice is a new model. They have an understanding and knowledge of social factors, health coaching, and are able to find out what support the patient requires.  In the Merton pilot study, 77% of patients reported an improvement following social prescribing, GP appointments dropped by a third, and hospital admissions halved. This data correlates with similar work being done in Rotherham and Bexley. The NHS has pledged to fund a link worker for every practice by 2021 It will be within the scope of the practice to decide how best to utilise the link worker within the demographic of the practice.   FURTHER INFORMATION What Is Social Prescribing? Social prescribing: a GP’s perspective Social Prescribing Project: The Patients’ Story Follow Dr. Mohan Sekeram on Twitter   ABOUT THE HOST Dr. Shan Hussain is an author, general practitioner, health coach, wellness advisor and ambassador to the World Health Innovation Summit. As Founder of The Health Studio and a medical doctor of 18 years, he has a special interest in health promotion and disease prevention. He works with individuals and organisations to help naturally improve health in a sustainable, holistic manner. Dr. Hussain has developed several coaching and mentorship programmes designed to help reverse the symptoms of many stress-related health problems. His best-selling book, 'The Big Prescription' serves as a guide for readers to learn about evidence-based holistic health practices that create the foundation of his work.   CONTACT METHOD       Connect with Dr. Shan Hussain through his website at https://thehealthstudio.net/       If you would like to support our Podcast, please visit our Patreon page https://www.patreon.com/enduringhealth   Support the show.