The service of social workers is a very strong and important force in hospice care. They provide support for patients and families as they face the challenge of a terminal illness in the family. Their goal is to help provide the patient with the right hospice care program that is designed to enhance the quality of his life in a physical, emotional, psychological and moral aspect. As social workers, they support the patients, with the appropriate palliative care, to continue being determined and motivated to lead dignified lives despite their conditions.
They are the ones who will understand the background of each family by conducting initial evaluations that will make the hospice team understand what the family needs or wants in their program. From then, it shall be the social worker’s role to give emotional support to the family as they go through the palliative or symptoms management program. They also help the family navigate through resources to help them have sufficient finances as they go through the program. Lastly, social workers shall help the family and the patient make decisions regarding end-of-life plan and support them as they grieve at them time or their loss.