How Hospice and Social Work Go Hand in Hand

Most people associate hospice purely with healthcare. They or their loved one are approaching the end of their time here on earth, and seek hospice to help with pain management, skilled nursing, and similar services. 

But your mental and emotional experience are also very important, and should not be neglected during hospice care. That is why we have medical social workers on staff to assist our patients and their families during this process. 

Social workers help in so many ways, including:

Advocating for patients needs and desires, and connecting them with service providers

Social workers can help bridge the gap between patients, their families, and the wide array of services available to people in hospice. 

Alleviating fears

The end of life experience can be scary and overwhelming. There are many questions patients and their families have, and it can be difficult to know who to ask or where to seek the right information. You may not even be aware that you had certain questions until someone else brings the topic up. Medical social workers are well-versed in all the details of the process, and service as comforting guides along the journey. 

Being a listening ear

Sometimes, you just need someone to listen. Our medical social workers are highly trained in providing an empathetic ear, and offer comfort and assistance whenever you need them. You may not always feel comfortable having heartfelt or emotional conversations with your doctor or other healthcare providers, and that is where social workers shine. 

In addition to medical social workers, Coastal Home Health & Hospice also employs a spiritual care coordinator and an end-of-life doula to help even more with the emotional, philosophical, and spiritual parts of the journey. 

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one, please don’t hesitate to contact us.