Social Worker

The role of a hospice social worker is to advocate for each patient’s end-of-life wishes and help individuals address the emotional aspects of late-stage illnesses. Hospice social workers also assist families in identifying other available local services and resources for additional support.

According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, 1.49 million Medicare beneficiaries were enrolled in hospice care (PDF, 1.3 MB) External link  for one day or more in 2017. As the population continues to age, the number of social workers needed for hospice and palliative care will likely continue to increase.

Palliative care can begin at diagnosis External link , and at the same time as treatment, according to MedlinePlus.gov. Hospice care begins after treatment of the disease is stopped and when it is clear that the person is not going to survive the illness.

Hospice programs provide medical care; psychological, emotional, social and spiritual support; and pain management treatments and services to patients suffering from debilitating conditions or terminal diagnoses. Patients who need hospice care and their families experience a number of hardships, including anger and anxiety; depression; financial strain; intense physical pain or discomfort; social isolation; and family conflict.

Hospice services are delivered not only at hospice centers but also through in-home care services. For instance, hospice social workers might provide services to visitors of hospice centers and follow up with terminally ill clients who need intensive medical care during hospital visits.

Hospice social workers help clients and their families navigate planning for end-of-life care; understand their treatment plan and be vocal about their needs; manage the stresses of debilitating physical illnesses, including emotional, familial and financial; overcome crisis situations; and connect to other support services. Hospice workers are advocates for patients and their families, and know what their clients need and what resources are available within and outside of hospice settings to help them.

Hospice and palliative care social work is challenging work, as it involves helping people through difficult and stressful times of their lives. However, the rewards may include making strong connections with people, learning and celebrating their life stories, and having a positive impact on clients and their families.