Winnipeg/CMEDIA: Social work services in Manitoba’s emergency departments and urgent care centres are reportedly being expanded.
“When front-line health-care workers tell us what they need to better support patients, we take action,” said Asagwara. “Social workers bring specialized expertise in mental health, crisis intervention and connecting people with community supports. They play a critical role in helping patients navigate complex challenges while allowing nurses, physicians and other health-care professionals to focus on delivering medical care. We’re putting more of them where they’re needed.”
New positions would be included at St. Boniface Hospital, Seven Oaks General Hospital, Concordia Hospital and Victoria Hospital, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.
In response to feedback from front-line health-care workers who identified the need for additional support, the new positions connect patients with community services after leaving hospital.
Working as part of emergency departments and urgent care teams, Social workers will collaborate with community organizations and service providers to help patients access support they need in the community.
Two social workers have already been hired and will begin work in the coming weeks.
Social workers can help reduce pressure on emergency departments by supporting discharge planning and helping patients access community services sooner, and support efforts to improve wait times and patient care, the minister noted.
Having been expanded to 24-7 in 2023 at the HSC Winnipeg emergency department, Social work positions announced today will ensure patients at more Winnipeg hospitals have access to these services, strengthening emergency department teams and supporting patients and families through the next steps in their care.
As part of the Manitoba government’s ongoing work, the new positions strengthen health-care teams, support front-line health-care workers and improve patient care, the minister noted.
