How to refer a patient/family for Social Work Services
About Social Work Services
As part of the Clinical Center's comprehensive care for children enrolled in clinical trials, a child/family may be assigned or referred to a Clinical Center social worker. Social workers often contact families before their first visit to the Clinical Center or soon after their arrival.
Families may ask to meet with a social worker at any time during their stay.
Back to top
Contacting a social worker
Social workers are assigned by Institute. If you do not know the social worker for your protocol, call the Clinical Center Social Work Department office at: (301) 496-2381.
After hours 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., an on-call social worker is always available. Call the page operator at (301) 496-1211.
Back to top
When do I refer a patient/family to social work?
These questions may help you know when to refer to the Clinical Center Social Work Department.
|
Question |
Refer to a social worker |
|
Family support system |
|
Does the patient live with parent(s)? |
If no, refer to a social worker. |
|
Who will accompany the patient to NIH? |
If more than 1 parent will accompany the patient, refer to a social worker.
If siblings will accompany the patient, refer to a social worker.
If anyone other than the parents accompany the patient, refer to a social worker. |
|
If the institute authorizes, does the pt/family need referral to the Children’s Inn or other lodging? |
If yes, a social worker can arrange for the first stay at the Children’s Inn or other appropriate housing. |
|
Psychosocial indicators |
|
Does the patient have difficulty coping with their illness while at the CC? |
If yes, refer to a social worker. |
|
Is the parent/caregiver anxious, tearful, angry, confused, or have limited understanding of CC? |
If yes, refer to a social worker. |
|
Special needs |
|
Does patient have special physical needs or conditions: e.g., ambulatory aids, oxygen, tracheotomy, seizure disorder, vision, hearing or speech impairment, mobility problems? |
If yes, refer to a social worker prior to admission. |
|
Does the patient/family need an interpreter? |
If yes, social workers can help staff facilitate language interpretation as appropriate. |
Back to top
This information is prepared specifically for caregivers involved in clinical research at the NIH Clinical Center at the National Institutes of Health.
