Concept of Medical Social Work

Medical social work is a method of modern social work by which social work knowledge, methods and strategies are used in medical sector.

 According to, Robert L. Barker 1995 has defined – “The medical social work practice that occurs in hospitals and other health care Settings to facilitate good health, prevent illness, and aid physically ill patients and their families to resolve the social and psychological problems related to the illness.”

Medical social work is social work practiced in a responsible relationship to medicine and public health with the structure of programs of health and medical care (Kurtz, 1975).

So medical social work is a service based on social work knowledge and skills where the psychological factors behind the diseased are studied and helps the client to improve his mental state and necessary steps are taken for his recovery and rehabilitation. It also gives emphasis on preventive care.