Social Work Services
When most people think about hospice, social workers are not the first thing that comes to mind. But our patients and their families soon discover how valuable our social workers are in helping them to navigate the complex financial, logistical, and even emotional aspects of hospice care.
Because of this, Social Services are a vital component of our Care Programs. Our goal is to improve or maintain the social, emotional, functional, and physical health status of each patient while also enhancing the coping skills of the family and other caregivers. With illness or injury, there are often social, emotional, and financial burdens that can be made easier with the assistance of a Medical Social Worker.
Coastal Hospice provides accredited social workers who assist patients and their families in adapting and planning the home environment.
Note: Social Services are only available for patients of Coastal Hospice.
What Do Social Workers Do in a Hospice Setting?
Assisting patients and families in making health care decisions based on personal goals of care
Ensuring the patient’s end-of-life wishes are documented and known by assisting with advance directives, do not resuscitate (DNR) orders, or POLST forms.
Contacting local agencies and/or community resources that may be of help to patients and families.
Assistance and explanation of Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance benefits.
Assistance with Medicaid eligibility process.
Assistance with funeral planning.
Provide emotional support.
Identifying the emotional needs of the patient and their loved ones and finding appropriate support as needed.
Assistance with bridging family gaps to bring loved ones together whenever possible.
Assisting survivors with necessary arrangements and paperwork after death.
Assisting survivors in obtaining appropriate grief counseling.
Identifying other needs of the patient and their support circle and assisting as needed.