Medical Social Worker

Medical Social Workers (MSW) work in a multidisciplinary team to support patients and their families while the patient recovers.

Medical Social Worker Job Description

Assess the needs of patients and families and link them to the relevant services and resources.

Develop care, treatment, or intervention plans. Help patients and their families cope with physical and emotional issues from the medical conditions.

Provide psycho-emotional counselling for patients and families.

Educate patients and families on government policies to navigate them through the medical system.

Advocate for patients by identifying service gaps and giving feedback to policymakers.

Note

Medical Social Workers are not volunteers! They are trained to assist the patients and families with psychosocial issues arising from the illness. Yes, they receive a salary.

A day in the life

Medical Social Worker

Join Afzal as he finds out what it takes to be a Medical Social Worker from Alain Quek, from Jamiyah Nursing Home.

Respiratory Therapist and Medical Social Worker

Medical Social Worker Shi Min believes that caring for patients goes beyond the hospital. Watch how she helps patients navigate their way through recovery.

Medical Social Worker

Being a Medical Social Worker is no easy feat. It requires a lot of patience and empathy. Watch how Ismawanty Razak goes beyond to help his patients.

What you should know about Medical Social Worker jobs in Singapore

Nature of work

You will act as an advocate for patients, ensuring their needs and preferences are communicated to the healthcare team.

Key Advice

Self-care is important so that you can be in the best state to help your patients.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
A bachelor's degree in Social Work is required.

It is helpful to pick up different languages since Medical Social Workers work with patients of all ages from various backgrounds.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Medical Social Worker career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Knowledge of Medical Conditions

Understanding various medical conditions and their impact on patients' mental and social health.

Case Management

Ability to manage cases effectively, including assessing needs, planning, and monitoring interventions.

Counselling

Proficiency in counselling patients and families to address emotional, psychological, and social challenges.

Soft Skills

Communication

Strong communication skills for effective patient interaction, advocacy, and collaboration with healthcare teams.

Collaboration

Ability to work collaboratively with medical professionals, community resources, and families for patient care.

Adaptability

Flexibility to adapt to diverse patient needs and changing healthcare environments.

“As a Medical Social Worker, I get to witness our patients overcome their toughest adversities.”

Ismawanty Abdul Razak, Senior Medical Social Worker

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between Medical Social Workers and Social Workers?

Medical Social Workers usually work in hospitals and specialise in patients' care and discharge planning while Social Workers typically work in the community and focus on financial assistance, counselling and safety planning for domestic abuse.
Which areas can Medical Social Workers work in?

They can work in many areas such as geriatrics (medical care for the elderly), trauma work, case management, and palliative care. They can also dive into research and teaching.
How do Medical Social Workers handle challenging or emotionally difficult situations?

Medical Social Workers listen to the patients to understand their emotions, answering with empathy and compassion, all the while managing their own emotions to maintain professionalism during the situation.
Are there any specific ethical guidelines for Medical Social Workers?

Yes, there are! For example, Medical Social Workers should respect and support their client's rights to make their own decisions. They also must maintain confidentiality of client information, with the exception of the duty to warn or protect the client or others from harm.
How do Medical Social Workers ensure patient confidentiality?

Medical Social Workers follow ethical guidelines, only disclosing personal information when they recieve written consent from their client, ensuring that their information are stored securely. They maintain professional boundaries and only share client information on a need-to-know basis.