Distinctive Features of Medical Social Work : A Comparison of Ideals and Practice

Abstract

The purpose of this study is the clarification of medical social work functions. Using grounded theory, we extracted a list of medical social work characteristics which differ from features of other medical professions. We designed a questionnaire consisting of 33 items based on these characteristics. These items were called "ideal image". A total of 150 medical social workers were asked to rate each item on a scale of one to five. By analyzing their responses we were able to extract five factors which have been identified as indicators for the distinctive features of medical social work. Finally, questions were asked pertaining to the level of awareness of these items in the course of medical social work practice. We called the results "Practical Awareness" and compared them to the "ideal image". Significant differences between the two were confirmed. Where such differences arise from is an issue that will require further study.