Medical Social Work I

Catalog description

This elective course is the first of the Medical Healthcare Cluster that students take to advance their skills, knowledge and understanding of medical social work. This course is designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of the roles and competencies of social workers in medical settings. Students will enhance their knowledge of medical treatment teams, health policy issues and resources available to individuals and families affected by illness. Students will explore culture and religion/spirituality and their effects on health outcomes and access to healthcare. Students will also learn about legal issues implicated in the provision of medical social work services including HIPAA and end-of-life care. At the end of this course, students should understand ethical practices related to medical social work. Students will also explore differences in healthcare settings to include hospice, hospitals, inpatient and outpatient clinics, and contemporary methods of using technology to treat and care for patients.