The Role of Medical Social Workers in Improving the Psychosocial Well-being of Patients in Mulago National Referral Hospital

Abstract

Medical social workers play a crucial role in enhancing the psychosocial well-being of patients in healthcare settings. This study investigates their impact at Mulago National Referral Hospital, one of Uganda’s largest and most influential healthcare institutions. The research explores how medical social workers address the psychological, social, and emotional needs of patients, thereby contributing to overall patient care and recovery. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with medical social workers, patients, and healthcare providers, as well as quantitative analysis of patient satisfaction surveys and psychosocial well-being indicators. Key areas of focus include the identification of psychosocial issues, provision of counseling and support services, facilitation of communication between patients and healthcare teams, and the coordination of community resources to support patient needs. Findings indicate that medical social workers significantly contribute to the improvement of patients’ psychosocial well-being through various interventions. These include crisis intervention, grief counseling, and support groups, which help patients cope with the emotional challenges of illness and hospitalization. Moreover, medical social workers assist in navigating the healthcare system, addressing social determinants of health such as housing and financial instability, and advocating for patients’ rights and needs within the healthcare setting. The study concludes that the integration of medical social work services in hospitals like Mulago National Referral Hospital is essential for comprehensive patient care. It highlights the need for increased staffing, ongoing training, and policy support to enhance the effectiveness of medical social workers. The research underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in healthcare, where the medical and psychosocial aspects of patient care are addressed holistically to improve overall health outcomes.