Commitment + Clinical Leadership = Better Outcomes

What is Social Work?

What is Social Work?

Mar. 27th, 2022

Pictured: Amy Royse

Social workers are responsible for advocating and empowering those that they serve. They work with a wide variety of people, including residents at nursing homes, veterans, seniors, children, people with disabilities, prisoners, and other people in need.

We interviewed Amy Royse, Director of Social Services and Discharge Planner from Bath Manor, as well as Bethany Barrientos, Director of Social Services at Broomall Manor.

“I work with people who have cognitive or physical deficits, many of whom are transitioning to a nursing facility for the first time. I work with the access programs to give them care and work on discharge planning,” Royse told us.

“To me, social work means being compassionate to everyone,” Barrientos said.

Can you describe what a social worker does in a day?

“On any given day, I check admissions and do admission assessments. I make sure all the paperwork is completed and review anything our residents may be required to have, including care plans and emotional needs. I make referrals for them and I also assist with problem solving, complaint resolutions, and financial affairs,” Royse mentioned.

“It’s hard to put that into words because we do many things and have many day to day tasks. One of our main roles is caring and advocating for patients,” Barrientos told us. “We have to make sure the needs and rights of our residents are upheld.”

How did you first learn about social work and decide to go into this field?

“I went to Akron University and was originally in a business degree. However, I did not feel it was fulfilling and decided this would be a better fit because I wanted to help people,” Royse said.

“I was caring for my grandparents during college and went to a mentor to discuss my major. I wanted to help people and advocate for those who can’t do so for themselves. I learned about social work, and decided that I would be a great fit for the field,” Barrientos said.

What is your background in social work and how did you get to where you are today?

Royse began her career at an internship for a hospital, where she worked with a master social worker. She became licensed but decided to move into an admissions director role. When the social worker at the building resigned, she decided to apply for that position.

“I transitioned back into social work because I discovered the work was very fulfilling for me. I found Saber and have been here for 5 years, and I love my job!” Royse said.

Barrientos has always been in geriatrics and has worked in various nursing homes since 2014.

What qualifications and skills do you need in social work?

Barrientos and Royse both said a Bachelor’s degree is required to be a social worker. Sometimes, people will obtain their Master’s, but that is not necessary for all social work roles.

“You have to know the area you’re serving, community resources, and who to refer as well,” Royse explained. “With COVID, many of our referral sources were no longer available to us. It can be a task to find services, so knowing where they are available is very important. Many social workers are currently struggling with this due to the labor shortage that COVID caused.”

“You need to have passion and patience,” Barrientos said. “You also need flexibility. Social work is an ever-changing day-to-day experience, and you need to be able to change when needed.”

What is your favorite part about your role?

“Getting to meet all kinds of new people at the building. I have learned so much and I don’t get bored here. There’s always things going on, something to learn, and people to meet. It’s a great environment,” Royse shared.

“My favorite part is getting to know the residents and being able to have the time to talk and reminisce,” Barrientos said.

What opportunities are in the field for social workers?

“A lot of social workers in our area work for nursing facilities, insurance companies, hospice, or hospitals,” Royse told us.

“With a degree in social work, you can work with children, youth, veterans, and individuals who experience homelessness,” Barrientos added.

Any advice for aspiring social workers?

“Start forming relationships in the community. The more people you know, the easier it is to get services from people,” Royse advised. “Social workers are part of every party involved – the families, the communication, and resources outside of here. There is a lot of communication and organization required.”

Royse also mentioned she is on a Facebook Group where social workers who work in long-term care can ask each other questions and answer them. This group has helped her to learn more about social work, and she is an administrator of the page.

“My advice would be to really use opportunities, such as internships, to learn as much as you can. Try internships in different environments, even a place you might not want to like a prison,” Barrientos said. “I also recommend learning self-care. Take time for yourself because social work can be a very emotional job.”

Saber Healthcare and Social Work

Saber Healthcare appreciates our social work teams and how they strive every day to help our residents. Social workers are able to advocate and help our residents whenever needed, and they make a difference in helping the residents with their needs.

To apply for a social work job at a community near you, click here.

Saber Healthcare is an organization dedicated to providing consultant services to long term care providers. This article is for informational purposes and is not meant to be seen as professional advice. Please consult with a medical expert before relying on the information provided.