What are the main responsibilities of a medical social worker?

The primary responsibilities of a medical social worker center around providing tangible assistance and counseling to patients and their families. This role involves helping individuals navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, addressing social and emotional challenges related to health conditions, and connecting patients with community resources, support services, and financial aid.

Medical social workers also provide counseling to help patients cope with diagnosis, treatment decisions, and the psychological impact of illness. They work collaboratively within healthcare teams to advocate for patient needs and facilitate communication among providers, patients, and families, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care.

While conducting medical tests, performing surgeries, or analyzing samples are critical tasks in healthcare, these functions fall under the purview of trained medical and laboratory professionals rather than medical social workers. Their expertise lies in addressing the psychosocial aspects of health and wellness, making option B the most accurate reflection of their responsibilities.