Medical Social Work

Medical social workers at Southwest Regional Rehabilitation Center are a liaison between the patient, his or her caregiver and/or family members, and the rehabilitation team. A psychosicial assessment is completed upon admission to assess the functional abilities of the patient before the onset of illness or injury, in addition to their social supports upon discharge. Together, the patient, caregiver(s), and social worker establish mutual goals to facilitate adjustment to hospitalization, diagnosis, challenges, and to make plans for other potential needs upon discharge.

Social workers link patients and caregivers to community resources such as counseling, diagnostic specific support groups, chore services, follow up therapy, medical equipment, Meals on Wheels, housing assistance, financial stress resolution, Family Medical Leave Act paperwork, insurance benefit education, Medical Durable Power of Attorney and more. Social workers tailor assessments and services to meet the needs of the patient and family to facilitate safe and realistic discharge planning.

If a patient is unable to safely return to their home, alternate living arrangements are coordinated with social work for assisted living, adult foster care, private duty care and other options.

Caregivers and family members are encouraged to participate in the patient's treatment in order to acquire necessary skills for assisting the patient after discharge. Social workers coordinate family education through clinical meetings with therapy staff, and caregiver training with the patient and caregivers. Continual communication through social work with the patient and family regarding ongoing discharge planning is essential to meet the therapeutic needs for rehabilitation and recovery.

Social workers also facilitate the stroke support group largely attended by stroke survivors and their caregivers. The support group has been active for over a decade, and is attended by former patients and caregivers, as well as patients referred from the community. Agendas for continuing education and supportive services are driven by patient desires and participation.

Southwest Regional Rehabilitation Center 393 E. Roosevelt Battle Creek, Michigan  49017 269.965.3206