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What is Access to Resources in the Community (ARC)?
ARC Social Prescribing Model
Access to Resources In the Community (ARC) is a patient-centered Social Prescribing model integrated in primary care practices with the intention to help individuals accesses resources that can address their health and social needs. The model utilizes a Lay Patient Navigator who supports patients by finding local resources in their community.
Why another navigation model?
The ARC Navigation services are distinct from existing navigation services in the following ways:
1. The navigator is a layperson
The ARC navigator is a bilingual, lay person with no clinical background or medical training. The navigator is trained specifically in patient-centered communication and navigation service delivery, and so they have a better knowledge of the context and existing resources.
2. The navigator is integrated into primary care practices
The ARC navigator is a member of the primary care team and promotes the integration of primary and community care by
(1) Improving continuity of information, and
(2) Fostering recommendations to community resources by enabling patients’ access to these resources.
3. The ARC navigator is a “generalist”
The ARC navigator supports a broad patient population (e.g., a general population not characterized by a specific cultural background or illness) and promotes access to resources that address a wide range of needs.
4. The navigation services support access to community resources
The ARC navigator helps patients overcome barriers and links them to local and virtual services in addition to government support programs that promote health and social well-being.
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