World Social Work Day 2024 highlights efforts of unsung heroes
On March 19, the global community celebrated World Social Work Day, recognising the crucial contributions of social workers in driving positive community transformations. Professionals and advocates worldwide united to honour their pivotal role within communities.
Under the auspices of the British Association of Social Workers, this year’s World Social Work Day delved into the theme of ‘Buen Vivir’, emphasising the holistic well-being and interconnection of individuals and communities.
In conjunction with the celebration, medical social worker from the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre’s (PJSC) Medical Social Work Department Shahril bin Abdullah penned an article titled Unveiling the Compassionate Heart of Medical Social Work: World Social Work Day 2024.
In it, Shahril touches on the vital role practitioners play in promoting Buen Vivir by offering essential support to patients confronting life-altering diagnoses such as cancer and stroke.
“Annually observed on the third Tuesday of March, World Social Work Day stands as a global occasion to recognise the invaluable contributions of social workers,” Sharil wrote, adding that it serves as a platform to highlight their tireless efforts in enhancing the welfare of individuals, families, and communities.
Moreover, the day stands as a reminder of the pivotal importance of social justice, human rights, and empowerment in the pursuit of a fairer and more equitable society.
Amidst the global festivities, the spotlight on Buen Vivir reverberates deeply within the scope of medical social work as practitioners within the field undertake a multifaceted approach, addressing not only the medical needs of patients but also their psychological, social, and emotional well-being.
“Through compassionate support and advocacy, they strive to foster an environment where individuals facing formidable health challenges can experience a sense of wholeness and harmony.”
Buen Vivir embodies a vision of collective well-being, where individuals flourish in symbiosis with their communities and the environment.
In this pursuit, medical social work emerges as a fundamental pillar, actively contributing to the realisation of this vision.
“By facilitating access to resources, providing emotional support, and advocating for patients’ rights, social workers contribute significantly to the cultivation of resilience and empowerment amidst adversity.”
VITAL ROLE: MEDICAL SOCIAL WORK
In healthcare, medical social workers play a vital role, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to tackle patients’ complex challenges.
They enhance quality of life and overall well-being, serving as advocates, counsellors, and liaisons, bridging gaps between patients, providers, and support services, ensuring holistic care and support.
At the forefront of healthcare, social workers conduct comprehensive assessments to identify patients’ psychosocial needs.
With tailored interventions, they empower individuals to navigate health complexities. Through empathetic engagement, they foster resilience.
Beyond intervention, they foster a culture of compassion, facilitating collaboration and access to resources, promoting patient-centred care and positive health outcomes.
PATIENT CARE: HOLISTIC SUPPORT
Shahril also emphasised in his article that in medical settings, social workers play a crucial role in supporting patients facing life-altering diagnoses like cancer or stroke.
Positioned as frontline caregivers, they navigate emotions, offer personalised counselling, and facilitate support groups.
They secure financial resources, coordinate transport, and connect patients with community services, ensuring comprehensive support.
Through meticulous assessments, they identify diagnosis impacts, collaborating with rehab teams to tailor plans addressing physical, emotional, and social challenges.
They also support caregivers, providing education and resources for a nurturing environment.
Furthermore, social workers create safe havens for patients to express fears and anxieties. – Izah Azahari
