FAQs: Social Work
Q. What does a Social Worker do?
A. A social worker meets with every patient who is
admitted to Rusk's inpatient service and addresses any concerns or questions
that the patient or family may have. The social worker will also ask
the patient and family questions in order to prepare an evaluation.
These questions may deal with relevant personal history, prior level
of functioning, available supports, issues concerning health care proxy
and power of attorney, and the patient's ability to cope with the present
illness and to manage continuing care needs. The social worker is available
for counseling as well as practical assistance with government programs
for which the patient may be eligible and any other local resources.
The social worker also helps the patient and family plan for discharge
from the hospital.
Patients in the Outpatient Program should ask their doctor to make a referral for Social Work service, if it is desired. Click here for more information on outpatient social work programs at The Rusk Institute.
Q. What do I do when I leave the hospital?
A. Based on the recommendations of the patient's doctor
and rehabilitation team, as well as the patient's preferences, the social
worker plans for a safe discharge and helps the patient prepare for
leaving the hospital. Patients and families have several options for
follow-up care. They may receive care at home, with limited home care
through a Certified Home Health Agency; they may continue treatment
as an outpatient at Rusk or another rehabilitation facility; or they
may be transferred to a sub-acute facility for further rehabilitation.
More
information about Pediatric Social Work services at The Rusk Institute.
