The Social Work Division is staffed by professional, masters-level social workers with years of MS expertise; who are trained to assess and help each person in his or her own personal situation and environment.
In-depth, individualized sessions with patients and families to assess problems in the home environment, relationships and coping, leading to collaboration with the interdisciplinary team on ameliorating those issues.
Our social workers specializing in MS, facilitate support groups of our patients in order to help them help each other cope with the diagnosis. Groups are formed around specific situations and topics, such as newly diagnosed, coping with disease progression, and others as suggested by our patients. Knowing each of our patients allows us the advantage of knowing every person in a group will be physically similar. You will be with people like you.
The social work department offers short-term supportive counseling for patients and family members regarding MS issues. Referrals are made to outside services for assessment of depression, anxiety, relationship problems and other mental health issues that patients may be experiencing.
One-on-one meetings with our social work staff are offered for people who are no longer able to work. Assisting you in navigating the private, group and Social Security Disability application process.
General insurance-related questions answered.
Individualized explanation of Medicare, supplemental, and RX plans and assistance in choosing the right one for your needs and budget.
Information on government programs that may assist with income and health insurance. Referral to attorneys who specialize in the Medicaid process.
Counseling on what accommodations would help you keep your job, how to ask for accommodations, mediation between you and your employer, and your legal rights under the ADA.
Assessment and referral to agencies that provide physical and occupational therapy, home safety assessment, and home health aides.
Referrals to meal delivery programs for people who cannot shop or cook for themselves.
Assistance in applying for Access-a-Ride and arranging ambulette services.
Information-sharing and collaboration with in-patient social work and medical team upon admission to the hospital to ensure seamless planning for optimal homecoming.
The arrangement of meetings between patients, their families and the medical team to discuss and problem-solve seemingly intractable problems.
Patients may request letters from the social work department regarding jury duty, work accommodations, legal issues and absence from school or employment due to MS-related reasons. Our social workers can also assist in completing disability forms for patients. Please allow 3-5 business days for all letters and forms to be completed. Requests must be made during the time of absence and letters will not be written retroactively.
Because you deserve only the best in MS healthcare. Experience the difference.
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