Social work is primarily about how human needs can be met in society. It involves engaging not only with patients but their families and friends and working closely with other organisations including the;
Basildon Hospital social workers serve mainly people over 65. For example, they try to;
The hospital's social workers take assessment referrals from all wards for patients who become medically fit. Their role can include:
The social workers and social work assessors work closely with ward and health staff to make sure assessments and care packages are appropriate, facilitating a safe and timely discharge from hospital.
People who can no longer be cared for at home may be discharged into residential or nursing care. Home carers are available to provide care packages for up to 6 weeks to maximise recovery from a hospital stay.
All care packages from the hospital are reviewed after 4 - 6 weeks and transferred to the community home carers as needed.
Future plans include working closely with home assessment co-ordinators to further development the discharge planning system so that a patient's "pathway" through the hospital is smooth and co-ordinated.
This work is linked to the 'single assessment' process for health and social care professionals.
Social Workers also work with the Nurse Consultant (Intermediate Care) and NHS South West Essex to further develop links between health and social care in Thurrock.
The crisis support team includes:
They assess people who arrive at A & E or have a short stay in the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) or Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) making sure they are discharged without being admitted in hospital, if safe to do so.
Home care co-ordinators and assistants provide 4 - 6 weeks care packages to support people in their own home. This is closely monitored and reviewed regularly.
The crisis support team can also takes referrals directly from GPs in order to prevent a hospital admission.
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