Singapore Social Work and Healthcare: Chronic Diseases
Question 1 (50 marks)
(a) Analyse the psychological, social, and healthcare needs experienced by people with chronic diseases.
(15 marks)
(b) Appraise the role of the (i) government, (ii) social service agencies, and (iii) the individuals in Singapore’s whole-of-nation approach towards chronic or lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, or mental health issues.
(15 marks)
(c) Examine the following FOUR (4) social work skills relevant in healthcare settings: (i) Assessment, (ii) Problem-Solving, (iii) Brokering, and (iv) Interpersonal skills in multi-disciplinary working. Illustrate these skills with examples.
(20 marks)
Question 2 (30 marks)
(a) Demonstrate your understanding of John Rolland’s model of chronic illness according to the FOUR (4) key dimensions: (i) onset, (ii) course, (iii) outcome and (iv) its degree of incapacitation.
(20 marks)
(b) Discuss the (i) Person-in-Environment perspective and (ii) Biopsychosocial approach in supporting the patients and the families in a healthcare setting.
(10 marks)
Question 3
Amy, a 22-year-old female patient, was admitted to the hospital due to drug overdose. The doctor has requested for a medical social worker’s assessment and supportive counselling. The case was assigned to Brenda, a female medical social worker who has just started her career after graduation. Brenda is also 22 years old. She further gathered from the inpatient notes that Amy had a recent break up and therefore tried to overdose over-the-counter medications. Privately, Brenda begins to wonder if she might be able to handle this case well as she also had a recent similar break up with her ex-boyfriend.
Identify and apply FOUR (4) relevant social work values in determining how Brenda could handle this situation.
(20 marks)
Singapore Social Work and Healthcare
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Singapore Social Work and Healthcare
Chronic diseases are long-term medical conditions that typically progress slowly and persist for an extended period, often for an individual's life. These diseases can significantly impact people's quality of life and require continuous management and treatment. Chronic diseases can often be managed through various interventions, including lifestyle modifications such as dieting, exercising, and regular medical monitoring (Anderson & Durstine, 2019). However, treatment plans may vary depending on the disease and individual circumstances.
Question 1
(a) Analysis of the Psychological, Social, and Healthcare Needs Experienced by People with Chronic Diseases
Patients living with chronic diseases often face various psychological, social, and healthcare needs. However, analyzing these needs helps us understand the comprehensive support required to address the challenges individuals living with chronic conditions face. One psychological need is the patient’s emotional and mental well-being. Chronic diseases can have a great impact on cognitive health, resulting in increased levels of anxiety, stress, depression, and feelings of hopelessness (Maresova et al., 2019). Individuals may require emotional support, counseling, and therapy to cope with the psychological burden of their condition.
Patients suffering from chronic diseases also require frequent social support. Supportive relationships with family, friends, and peers are vital in managing chronic diseases. Chronic illness patients need education and awareness, empathy, and encouragement from their social networks to cope with their condition's emotional and physical demands (Carrier, 2022). Patients with chronic illnesses also need timely and accessible care to manage their conditions. Such patients require regular access to healthcare services, including routine check-ups, medication management, and specialized interventions, which are essential in effectively meeting their needs. Furthermore, financial assistance programs, insurance coverage, and affordable treatment options are crucial to reducing the financial burden on individuals and their families. By recognizing and addressing these needs, individuals with chronic diseases can experience improved quality of life, enhanced self-management, and better living.
b) Appraising the Role of the Government, Social Service Agencies, and the Individuals in Singapore’s Whole-of-Nation Approach towards Chronic Diseases
In Singapore, the government, social service agencies, and individuals play unique roles in addressing the challenges posed by these diseases and promoting a healthier population. The Singaporean government implements various strategies and initiatives to effectively promote public health and combat these conditions. For example, Canberra Park in Northern Singapore is designed to accommodate children living with disabilities, such as renovating see-saws to fit wheelchairs (Singapore University of Social Sciences, n.d.) Social service agencies in Singapore also contribute to the whole-of-nation approach by collaborating with government agencies, healthcare providers, and community partners to develop integrated programs. For instance, Community Resource, Engagement and Support Team (CREST) started a program currently piloted by The Hua Kwan Moral Charities to educate the public on dementia and other major cognitive health issues linked to older people (Singapore University of Social Sciences, n.d.). Individuals also contribute to Singapore's national approach toward chronic or lifestyle-related diseases. For example, individuals are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their health by adopting healthy lifestyles. Such lifestyles include engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and seeking early help for mental health issues. Individuals can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by making positive choices and improving their overall well-being.
c) Examining Assessment, Problem-Solving, Brokering, and Interpersonal Skills in Multi-Disciplinary Working
Assessment
Social workers in medical-care settings conduct comprehensive assessments to understand clients' needs, strengths, and challenges. For example, through assessment, a social worker gathers information about a diabetes patient's medical history, family dynamics, cultural background, and socioeconomic situation (Ghelani, 2022). Through this assessment, the social worker identifies the patient's knowledge gaps, emotional concerns, and support system, enabling them to develop a personalized care plan.
Problem-Solving
Social workers employ problem-solving skills to address complex issues and help clients navigate challenges related to their health and well-being. For instance, a social worker in a mental health clinic working with a client experiencing severe anxiety identifies that the client's concern is worsened by difficulty accessing affordable medication. The social worker may propose an affordable and accessible alternative.
Brokering
Social workers spot available resources and collaborate with community organizations, healthcare providers, and government agencies to address clients' needs effectivel...