Delivering Social Work Services to Multiple Sclerosis Patients through Videoconferencing Technology

Background:

Access to social work services for Multiple Sclerosis (ms) patients, may not appear as the “most effective” use of time for disabled patients. Primarily, because preparation for outpatient clinical visits is time consuming and may require the assistance of another person, i.e. caregiver. As a result, patients often try to avoid going to a medical center for care and most often neglect seeking social work services because they may not have “social work needs.” Unfortunately, for most disabled veterans, social work services may be life changing. Social workers within a healthcare system address the biopsychosocial needs of complex patients, which include coordinating, monitoring, evaluating and advocating on behalf of the patient and/or his family to facilitate appropriate services.  The use of videoconferencing technology to address patients’ needs reduces barriers to patients receiving benefits and services. Understanding the benefits and use of videoconferencing technology for direct social work practice from veterans home will improve access to care, minimize complications of medical needs and facilitate ongoing psychosocial rehabilitation.

1. Objectives: Demonstrate how the use of videoconferencing technology is successful in providing direct social work interventions
2. Participants will identify three social work interventions that can be utilized through videoconferencing technology
3. Participants will be able to describe methods for identifying appropriate participants

Methods:

MS veterans who would require outpatient or in-home visits to complete applications, annual evaluations or other case management services are offered to have a visit through use of tele-health equipment rather than an in-person clinic visit.   Access to a computer with a webcam is essential. Patients are educated about use of technology, benefits of having a face-to-face contact with provider in the comfort of their homes.Results:

MS veterans who would require outpatient or in-home visits to complete applications, annual evaluations or other case management services are offered to have a visit through use of tele-health equipment rather than scheduling an in-person clinic visit.  Veterans are required to have access to a computer with a webcam. Patient are educated about use of technology and benefits of having a face-to-face contact with provider in the comfort of their homes. Clinical visits are scheduled through tele-health coordinator. Veteran and provider are joined through technology.

Conclusions: The use of videoconferencing technology to provide social work services to multiple sclerosis veterans is an innovative method to provide cost effective accessible health care. Providing social work services from the home setting is more comprehensive.  Family members can also participate with permission of veteran.