The Prolonged Hospital Stays at Nigerian Teaching Hospitals: Roles of Medical Social Workers

TL;DR

The paper explores how medical social workers help reduce long hospital stays in Nigerian hospitals by providing support and advocating for patients.

Contribution

The study highlights the novel role of medical social workers in mitigating prolonged hospitalizations through psychosocial support and care coordination.

Findings

Prolonged hospital stays are linked to socio-economic and systemic healthcare challenges.

Medical social workers play a key role in improving patient outcomes through psychosocial support.

Systemic reforms and increased funding are needed to address the issue effectively.

Abstract

Prolonged hospital stays in Nigerian teaching hospitals pose a significant challenge to patient care and hospital management, exacerbated by socio-economic and systemic factors. This case study report looked at the multifaceted role of medical social workers in addressing these challenges, focusing on their efforts in providing psychosocial support, coordinating care, and advocating for patients within a strained healthcare system. This case-study highlights the impact of resource constraints and inadequate hospital practices on patient outcomes, emphasizing the psychological toll on patients and their families. It underscores the critical role of medical social workers as they navigate complex healthcare landscapes to mitigate the adverse effects of extended hospitalizations. This calls for a comprehensive approach to address these systemic issues, including policy reforms, increased healthcare funding, and strategic improvements in hospital administration. Hence the urgency of systemic change to ensure a more resilient and compassionate healthcare environment for all Nigerians.