For patients being discharged from a hospital or facility, having a plan in place can mean the difference between having a successful recovery and being readmitted. The healthcare industry can be daunting and confusing to navigate; but, patients are not alone. Medical social workers help patients and their families navigate these challenging times during their healthcare journey to set them up for the best possible outcomes.
Collaborative Care
Medical social workers provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s support needs and work in collaboration with the patient, their family, and the healthcare team to create an individualized discharge plan. This includes coordinating arrangements for caregiving services, medical equipment, transportation, meals, and counseling needs to make the transition home as seamless as possible. Once home, medical social workers provide follow-up visits to ensure that patients are adhering to their care plans and can identify and address any problems that may arise.
Compassionate Guidance
Returning home after an illness or procedure can be overwhelming. Medical social workers understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with recovery and can provide compassionate care and emotional support for patients and their families. Studies show that patients who are educated experience better outcomes, and medical social workers work to help patients and their families understand, accept, and follow medical recommendations. Utilizing their extensive knowledge of the health care system, medical social workers also help connect patients with the resources available to them to improve the quality of life and reduce hospital readmissions. This includes educating patients and their families about community assistance programs, health insurance coverage, and support group referrals. Their main priority is ensuring all the patient’s needs, both physically and mentally, are met throughout their treatment.
Patient Advocate
Medical social workers are a patient’s biggest advocate and help maintain open lines of communication between patients and healthcare providers. Many patients face obstacles in their personal lives, including language barriers and financial restraints that may prevent them from following medical orders. As an advocate for the patient, medical social workers communicate the patient’s specific needs to their healthcare team. They can keep them informed of any unique circumstances that may affect the patient’s care. Healthcare teams, medical social workers, patients, and families can work together to navigate and overcome hurdles to create the best possible outcome.
Our team of knowledgeable and compassionate medical social workers and home health care professionals are here to provide guidance and support for patients and families during challenging times. To learn how Assisted can help you or a loved one after a hospital stay, call us at 800-949-6555 or visit us online at www.AssistedCares.com.
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