A community health initiative
A scheme whereby GPs and other health professionals can offer their patients information about recommended books
What is meant by books on prescription?
- your GP will give you a prescription form for a recommended book
- you can get this book from your local library for free
- we hope it will help you to learn more about your health
What health problems are covered?
- problems such as depression, stress, most forms of anxiety and self-esteem are all appropriate for this approach, as are some physical problems such as diabetes, asthma and high blood pressure
Who chooses the books?
- all the books have been carefully chosen by medical consultants
- your book prescription will be individually suggested for you by your GP
Will it work for me?
- it is very popular and successful elsewhere in the U.K.
- it may be an alternative or in addition to other treatments
- your GP will review the success of your Book Prescription with you
How do I get the book from the Library?
- all of the books are in Cambridgeshire Libraries and are free to borrow and to request
- your Books on Prescription form, signed by your GP, will give you immediate membership of the Library
- the books can be identified by the green logo on the spine of the book
- you can keep the book for longer than three weeks if needed
- which books you borrow will be completely confidential
- if you find the book useful you may wish to buy a copy - all the details are on the prescription
How do I find more information about the scheme?
Tel: 0845 045 5225 (lines open 8am - 8pm, Mon - Sat)
Minicom: 01480 376743
Email
your.library@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
Cambridge Psychological Treatment Service: Tel: 01223 596305
Cambridgeshire Primary Care Trust: Tel: 01223 883718