kiajuana won the raffleFrom raffle winner, Kiajuana: "I've taken the licensing exam twice. I'm hoping that this material will help me to pass (3rd time is the charm). I just started as a in home medical social worker. Once I'm licensed I'm hoping to work with our troops or with people with disabilities."

Good luck, Kiajuana!

If you entered the raffle, check your email for a coupon. Everyone else, use PASS10 to save an additional 10% on SWTP exams. This week only!

What do medical social workers do?

Medical social workers play a crucial role in healthcare settings, where they focus on addressing the social and emotional aspects of a patient's well-being and their family's needs. Their primary goal is to enhance the overall quality of care and support for patients throughout their medical journey. Here are some key responsibilities of medical social workers:

Psychosocial Assessments: Conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the patient's emotional, social, and financial circumstances, identifying potential challenges and support systems.

Counseling and Support: Provide emotional support and counseling to patients and their families, helping them cope with the stress and emotional impact of medical conditions, diagnoses, and treatments.

Care Planning: Collaborate with healthcare teams to develop individualized care plans that address the patient's unique needs, including discharge planning and post-hospital care.

Resource Coordination: Connect patients and families with appropriate community resources, such as support groups, financial assistance programs, and home care services.

Crisis Intervention: Intervene in crisis situations, such as cases of abuse, neglect, or end-of-life care, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients and their families.

Advocacy: Advocate on behalf of patients to ensure their rights and wishes are respected within the healthcare system and when making medical decisions.

Advance Care Planning: Facilitate discussions about advance directives and end-of-life preferences, assisting patients in making informed decisions about their care.

Bereavement Support: Offer grief counseling and support to families and loved ones after the loss of a patient.

Education and Information: Educate patients and families about medical conditions, treatment options, and available resources to empower them in their healthcare decisions.

Team Collaboration: Work closely with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and case managers, to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Overall, medical social workers play a vital role in the interdisciplinary healthcare team, ensuring that patients receive holistic care that addresses their physical, emotional, and social needs. They strive to promote patient well-being, improve health outcomes, and enhance the patient's overall experience during medical treatment.


December 8, 2018