Suncrest Hospice Care comes to you with a bright and unique array of caring services for your patients and their families. Our services provide a highly attentive manner of comfort and respect for individuals specific desires and needs.

1. THE ROLE OF
A MEDICAL
SOCIAL
WORKER
LEADING PROVIDER
OF HOSPICE CARE

2. DEFINITION AND ROLE OF A MEDICAL
SOCIAL WORKER
A medical social worker is a trained professional within the healthcare
system who specializes in addressing the psychosocial aspects of
illness and healthcare. These professionals bridge the gap between
medical care and the complex emotional and social needs of patients
and their families. Grounded in the principles of social work, medical
social workers play a crucial role in enhancing the overall well-being of
individuals facing health challenges.

3. ROLE OF A MEDICAL SOCIAL
WORKER
Emotional Support:
Individual and Family Counseling: Medical social workers provide counseling
to individuals and families, helping them cope with the emotional impact of
illness, navigate uncertainties, and develop coping strategies.
Assessment and Advocacy:
Assessment of Psychosocial Needs: Conducting comprehensive assessments
to identify the emotional, social, and financial needs of patients and families,
ensuring a holistic approach to care.
Advocacy: Serving as advocates for patients within the healthcare system,
ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected.

4. Care Planning:
Collaboration with Healthcare Team: Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare
professionals to develop and implement care plans that address the emotional and social aspects
of a patient’s well-being.
Resource Coordination:
Community Resource Referrals: Connecting patients and families with community resources such
as support groups, financial assistance programs, and other services to enhance their overall
support network.
Crisis Intervention:
Crisis Management: Providing immediate support and intervention during times of crisis, such as
sudden illness, trauma, or difficult medical decisions.
End-of-Life Care:
Palliative and Hospice Support: Assisting patients and families in navigating end-of-life decisions,
providing emotional support, and ensuring a dignified and comfortable transition.
Ethical Decision-Making:
Assistance with Ethical Dilemmas: Guiding patients, families, and healthcare teams through
ethical decision-making processes, especially in situations where medical choices may impact
quality of life.

5. CONTACT DETAILS
Phone: 760-699-0053Fax: 760-699-0073
information@suncresthospicecare.com
Location:36923 Cook St., Suite 102-1 Palm Desert, CA 92211