THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORKERS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INDIGENT PATIENTS IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE.

ABSTRACT

The Nigerian healthcare system as compared to many other countries isneither free nor subsidized at all levels of healthcare delivery. The healthcare institutions demand of patients that they provide a deposit before treatment.It is observed that there is no social policy in Nigeria to address the health needs of vulnerable members of the society which includes indigent patients in Government Hospitals in Nigeria.In view of this, this study investigates the role of Social Workers in the management of indigent patients in Government Hospitals in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.The study employed a survey research design with the use of structured questionnaire and indept interview guide to obtain information from the respondents. Purposive and snowballing sampling technique was adopted in selecting the respondents (indigents patients and a few management staff each from the selected hospitals) in Benin City. Data for the study was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study reveals that social workers are indispensable and play a vital role in the management of indigent patients in hospital settings.Recommendations were made to improve upon the care and management of indigent patients among the population. Findings have implications for Government Hospitals Authorities, Policy Makers and relevant Healthcare practitioners.

Keyword: Social work, Social Worker, Indigent patient, indigent service user, Hospital.