Who are medical social workers and what do they do?
Medical social workers assist patients and their families with health-related problems and concerns. They lead support group discussions, help patients locate appropriate health care and other health services, and provide support to patients with serious or chronic illnesses. They help patients and their families find important resources they need to overcome unhealthy conditions such as child abuse, homelessness and drug abuse. They also help patients with finding legal resources and financial aid for paying for health services. How do medical social workers typically spend their workday? As a medical social worker, you will likely work in a hospital, nursing home, health clinic or community health agency. You will work closely with patients and other health professionals. For example, you may help a patient find nursing home care or you may visit hospitals to counsel patients who have life-threatening diseases. You may help new mothers find specialized care for their disabled infants
