For emergencies, call 0714 259 930 or visit our 24/7 Emergency Unit

Medical Social Work

Addressing Social Determinants of Health for Holistic Patient Care

About the Department

The Medical Social Work Department at Nyeri County Referral Hospital (NCRH) applies specialised social‑work methods to resolve social problems that affect patients’ health outcomes. By tackling social determinants of health, the team strives to improve both medical and social well‑being for patients and their families throughout the continuum of care.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

  • Identifying economically or socially vulnerable patients for social‑medicine support

  • Conducting psychosocial assessments to gauge individual and family needs

  • Linking patients and carers to community, governmental, and hospital resources

  • Performing home visits for follow‑up after discharge

  • Co‑ordinating patient repatriation when clinically and socially appropriate

  • Providing treatment literacy, preventive‑care education, and general health counselling

Core Methods & Interventions

  • Case Management

    An evidence‑based, patient‑centred process that assesses needs, plans interventions, co‑ordinates services, and monitors progress to ensure continuity of care.

  • Referrals

    Connecting patients to specialised professionals, community resources, and support services tailored to each individual’s psychosocial, financial, or rehabilitative needs.

  • Health Education

    Delivering clear, accessible information on disease management, treatment options, and preventive practices to empower patients and families in decision‑making.

  • Patient Advocacy

    Acting as a liaison between patients and healthcare providers to ensure voices are heard, rights are protected, and equitable access to medical and social services is achieved.

Department Structure & Collaboration

  • Works in multidisciplinary teams alongside clinicians, nurses, and allied health professionals

  • Partners with community organisations, NGOs, and government welfare agencies

  • Integrated within the broader Medical Assistance Department to streamline support pathways

Why Choose Us

  • Skilled social workers trained in medical, psychiatric, and community social work

  • Comprehensive case‑management model ensuring seamless access to resources

  • Strong advocacy for vulnerable populations, safeguarding patient rights

  • Evidence‑based interventions that improve adherence, recovery, and quality of life

Contact

For social‑work consultations or referrals, visit the Medical Social Work Department (Ground Floor, OPD Wing) or call 0724 249 693. Office Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; emergency social‑work support available via the Medical Assistance Department.