Hospital Social Work

Provides an introduction to the world of medicine and social work, as seen through the eyes of social workers. Covering varying facets of diverse illness situations, this book tells how social workers see their role and function, what they describe as the struggles and rewards of their work, and how they serve the hospital, patient, and caregiver. Hospital Social Work introduces the reader to the world of medicine and social work as seen through the eyes of actual social workers. An essential reference for both students and professionals. Over 100 social workers in dozens of hospitals were interviewed to provide the reader with first-hand experiences and discussions of practice principles, policy considerations, and theoretical treatments to provide each chapter with a unique blend of theory and practice. Joan Beder, a professor of social work and a practicing social worker, recently noted an apparent lack of empirical discussion of the actual role and day-to-day functioning of the medical social worker. Hospital Social Work is the result, a unique supplemental text for both studying and practicing medical social workers.