Social Services

Social services must be provided in a sufficient manner to meet the resident's or patient's needs. Regulations require the facility to aggressively identify the need for medically-related social services and pursue the provision of those services. Each resident and patient is assessed on admission by the social worker. The assessment includes such factors as home environment, discharge plans, advance directives, code status, and other relevant history. The social worker also assists with transportation, fund management, and applications for housing or Medicaid as necessary. The social worker's role is very diverse and covers many different facets in assisting residents in maintaining or improving their ability to manage their everyday physical, mental, and psychosocial needs.

St. Barnabas Social Services can address many of your concerns and make transitions to a skilled nursing facility easier for resident and families. Social services are also instrumental in transitioning short-term rehab patients back to their homes.