Work

Advancing the need for medical social workers in paediatric wards at a public health hospital in South Africa

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Whilst the literature related to social work services with children is extant, little is devoted to medical social work with regards to children in a hospital context. Moreover, empirical research related to medical social work is scant in South Africa. Using a qualitative research approach data was collected from health professionals, working in a paediatric ward, at a public health hospital in KwaZulu- Natal. The objective was to understand the experiences of paediatric patients and their parents and the potential role of social service professionals in paediatric wards. Semi-structured in depth interviews were conducted with a sample of eleven paediatricians, nurses and occupational therapists. The study found a huge gap in the paediatric ward with regards to psycho-social support services and the need for medical social workers.

Source: Children and Youth Services Review

DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2023.107236

Authors: Raisuyah Bhagwan, Celest Heeralal

Institution: Durban University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Social Work Education and Practice

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,820