March 25th marked the 9th anniversary of Vietnamese Social Work Day (2016-2025), prompting hospitals across Ho Chi Minh City to hold meaningful events. This article highlights the vital role of social workers in supporting patients and families, particularly during challenging circumstances like organ donation.
The Crucial Role of Social Workers in HCM City Hospitals
Social work departments in hospitals are not just integral to healthcare systems; they embody compassion and empathy. These unsung heroes act as bridges connecting patients, families, medical staff, and the community. Their support alleviates financial burdens and provides emotional comfort and encouragement to all parties involved.
Material and Emotional Support at the People’s Hospital of Gia Định
At the People’s Hospital of Gia Định, the social work department actively implements various initiatives. These include financial assistance for struggling patients, free meals, zero-cost ambulances, health insurance support, and cultural events like haircuts and hair washes during holidays. These efforts significantly reduce financial hardship and bring joy, hope, and solace during treatment.
Beyond material aid, social workers also collaborate with medical teams to offer comfort, actively listening to and addressing patients’ needs and concerns. Crucially, they provide unparalleled support to organ donation cases.
Saving Lives Through Compassion at the People’s Hospital of Gia Định
A compelling example involves a brain-dead patient who chose organ donation. Their kidneys saved two end-stage renal failure patients in Ca Mau and Ho Chi Minh City. This underscores the powerful humanitarian spirit, altruism, and compassion involved. Social workers stood beside the family during this difficult time, providing encouragement and support.
Dedicated Support at the Ho Chi Minh City Tropical Diseases Hospital
At the Ho Chi Minh City Tropical Diseases Hospital, social workers play a key role in assisting patients facing financial difficulties. They actively raise funds, provide psychological counseling, connect patients with benefactors, and address bureaucratic issues, such as birth certificate applications and locating relatives. Last year, the social work department raised over 1 billion VND in donations and directly assisted over 1.8 billion VND in medical expenses for vulnerable patients.
Furthermore, the hospital organizes “zero-cost” stalls, providing thousands of essential items to support patients.
Conclusion
Social work departments in HCM City hospitals are instrumental in enhancing healthcare quality and providing reassurance to patients. Their compassionate, dedicated, and responsible approach creates a truly humane medical environment, empowering patients to overcome challenges and regain health.
