The community services industry is a crucial part of the healthcare system, one that is often overlooked. Social workers and care managers are responsible for handling clients and for directing clients to the right services to receive the care they need. Although the two roles may appear similar, there are some key differences between them.
The main difference between social workers and care managers is that social workers primarily focus on improving the individual’s personal life, whereas, case managers assist in practical tasks, for example, connecting clients to rehabilitation programs if they are injured or welfare services if they are financially struggling.
Social worker
A social worker’s job is to assist clients and help them manage difficult life circumstances, for example, disability, illness, poverty and other such issues. Social workers may work in correctional facilities, child welfare agencies, hospitals, schools and community health centers. Social worker’s role varies depending on where they are employed. The role of social workers also includes advocating for public issues and helping marginalized and vulnerable patients seek justice. They also play a role in developing policies, delivering education and training. Most social workers work within specialties of mental health, the healthcare system, alcohol and substance abuse, child and family care.
Social workers are expected to:
• evaluate the needs of patients
• provide counselling
• respond to crisis, for example, child abuse
• maintain client records; assist with applications and paperwork with insurance or care facilities
• advocate patient rights
• follow up with patients to make sure that they are getting the services that they need.
At a minimum, social workers have obtained a bachelor’s degree, however, to practice in a clinical capacity they have to have their master’s.
Care manager
A care manager’s role is slightly broader than that of a social worker. Care managers are responsible for coordinating care and ensuring that clients have access to the services they need.
Their role includes:
• creating personalized care plans for patients.
• developing treatment plans
• identifying and recruiting healthcare providers or services.
• Facilitating patients’ treatment and ensuring their treatment requirements are met.
• Educate patients on procedures, instructions from healthcare providers and referrals.
• Linking patients to social services, transportation assistance and translational services.
• Regularly following up with patients to evaluate their progress to ensure improved health outcomes.
• Maintaining records.
For example, if a patient needs antibiotics, nursing services and durable equipment delivered; the care manager will be one of the members coordinating those things.
Care managers require a 4 years bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in public health, health information management and a related area.
Social works and care managers are very knowledgeable in navigating the healthcare system and serve as an important resource not only for the patient, but the medical team as well. Utilizing them to their full extent while in the hospital or pre-op will help your recovery process be a smooth and successful one.
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