Social Work
“My infant has developmental delays. Where do I go?” “I have no insurance.” “What’s an advance directive?” “What do I do? They want mom in a nursing home.” “I need to talk about a NO Code for my father.”
These are a few of the questions that the Social Work Department of Ashe Memorial Hospital and Segraves Care Center can help answer for families, patients, and residents. Patients are assessed upon entering the hospital for any possible needs upon discharge, whether for home care, or nursing home placement. If the patient needs supportive care, the Social Work Department makes referrals to home health providers, medical equipment supplies, personal care aides, or other assistance to provide safety and comfort at home. The patient and/or family member select the provider of their choice from a list given to them by the Social Worker or Discharge Planner. The Social Work Department assists patients and families with transfer from home or the hospital to a nursing home, providing emotional support, assisting with the admission process and helping to explain Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance coverage. Melissa Fowler is involved primarily with providing Social Work services for the Segraves resident and Ann Elllis, Social Worker and Discharge Planning, works with the hospital patients. Shirlene Widener, LPN, Utilization Review, Discharge Planning, assists with the day-to-day insurance coverage, helping insure that the patient has the company's approval and that his/her medical needs are eligible for hospitalization coverage. The Social Workers and Discharge Planners help provide a smooth transition for the patient from the hospital discharge to a supportive living situation. The majority of individuals requiring discharge planning services are the older Americans and disabled adults. The Social Work Department can also facilitate referrals for high-risk infants, Hispanic interpreters and issues that confront younger patients and families. The department also overseas concerns involving patient and resident rights, working closely with the Ashe County Department of Social Services with such situations as suspected child abuse, exploitation of the elderly, and guardianship issues. Information is available in the Social Work Department for the general public as well as our patients and residents concerning Living Wills and Health Care Power of Attorney. Our staff will be happy to assist anyone with preparing either of these legal documents to record the individual's wishes concerning end of life care. We have a notary on staff to assist in that process. Everyone is offered this service free-of-charge. If you have questions, contact our AMH Social Work Department.
|