Social worker

The assistance provided by a social worker as part of the rehabilitation process is intended to help patients address social problems arising from their illness. Depending on the patient’s needs, 1 or 2 consultations are provided, during which the specialist discusses with the patient any existing psychosocial and socioeconomic difficulties that may affect their health and social integration.

The social worker assesses the patient’s needs and capabilities. After identifying the patient’s need for assistance, the social worker provides information about available social, employment, and community services, offers consultations, and refers patients for appropriate social support measures, including financial social assistance (benefits, allowances, compensation, concessions), social care services (home assistance, personal assistance, transportation, etc.), and special assistance measures (compensated assistive devices, environmental adaptations, etc.). When necessary, the social worker acts as an intermediary with other institutions throughout the process of arranging social assistance.