The Relevance of Medical/healthcare Social Services in Tertiary Health Institutions in Nigeria, a Study of University of Abuja Teaching Hospital
TEACHING HOSPITAL
Abstract
This study employed a quantitative survey research design to examine the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions in Nigeria, a study of University of Abuja Teaching Hospital . A sample of 120 respondents, including healthcare professionals and patients, participated in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Hypotheses were tested using a t-test. The main findings of the study revealed that the availability of medical/healthcare social services in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital was perceived positively by the respondents. They acknowledged the relevance and effectiveness of these services in meeting patients’ psychosocial needs, enhancing communication and collaboration between healthcare professionals and patients, and improving patient outcomes and satisfaction. However, some challenges were identified, including limited funding and resources, insufficient awareness and understanding of the role of social services, and lack of integration and collaboration between medical professionals and social workers. Based on the findings, the study concludes that medical/healthcare social services play a crucial role in comprehensive patient care and should be integrated into tertiary health institutions. It highlights the need for increased awareness and training among healthcare professionals regarding the importance and role of social services. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of adequate funding, resources, and institutional support to overcome the challenges faced in the provision of these services. The study recommends several actions to improve the status and effectiveness of medical/healthcare social services. These include strengthening collaboration between healthcare professionals and social workers, allocating sufficient resources for the provision of social services, enhancing training programs for healthcare professionals, and promoting policies that prioritize the integration of social services in healthcare settings. Additionally, raising public awareness about the availability and benefits of these services is crucial. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the status and impact of medical/healthcare social services in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital. The findings highlight the significance of these services in addressing patients’ psychosocial needs and improving overall patient care. The study calls for collaborative efforts from healthcare institutions, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and patients to enhance the integration, accessibility, and quality of medical/healthcare social services.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
In Nigeria, tertiary health institutions play a critical role in providing specialized medical services, education, and research. However, these institutions face numerous challenges in meeting the complex healthcare needs of patients and their families. One essential component often overlooked is the provision of medical/healthcare social services. Medical/healthcare social services involve addressing the psychosocial needs of patients, promoting well-being, and facilitating effective healthcare delivery(Agwu, 2018).
According to Agwu (2018), evidence from research workshops with frontline health workers in Nigeria highlights the importance of addressing corruption in healthcare systems. This research emphasizes the need to ensure that resources are allocated appropriately and efficiently, enabling the delivery of quality medical/healthcare social services. Moreover, Ambrosino, Heffernan, Shuttlesworth, and Ambrosino (2015) emphasize the role of social work in healthcare settings, including tertiary health institutions. They argue that social work professionals have the expertise to provide support, counselling, and advocacy, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and improving overall healthcare quality.
Primary healthcare services in Nigeria face challenges in implementation, as discussed by Alenoghe, Aigbirenolen, Abjegali, and Ejemai (2017). These challenges include limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and gaps in the integration of social work services. The study emphasizes the need for strategies to overcome these constraints and effectively implement medical/healthcare social services. The integration of social work professionals within tertiary health institutions can enhance the delivery of comprehensive care and address the psychosocial needs of patients.
Berkman (2016) highlights the emerging healthcare world and its implications for social work practice. The evolving healthcare landscape requires social work professionals to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. This includes recognizing the importance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care to patients. By understanding the changing dynamics of healthcare, social workers can effectively contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities.
The changing demographics in healthcare needs further emphasize the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions. Hoyert, Arias, Smith, and Murphy (2021) discuss the vital statistics report, which highlights the demographic shifts and their impact on healthcare. As the population ages and healthcare needs become more complex, the role of medical/healthcare social services becomes even more crucial. Social work professionals can assist in addressing the unique needs of diverse patient populations and contribute to patient-centred care.
The New Competitive Health Care environment discussed by Goldsmith (2019) emphasizes the need for tertiary health institutions to adapt to changing market forces. In this environment, the provision of comprehensive and patient-centred care is essential to remain competitive. Medical/healthcare social services can play a vital role in enhancing the overall patient experience, satisfaction, and loyalty. By recognizing and integrating these services, tertiary health institutions can differentiate themselves and thrive in a competitive healthcare landscape.
Ebue and Agwu (2017) argue for the synergizing of perspectives in social work, specifically blending critical theory and solution-focused models. This integration of theories and approaches can enhance the effectiveness of medical/healthcare social services. Critical theory allows for a deeper understanding of power dynamics and social injustices, while the solution-focused model promotes practical strategies for addressing individual and systemic challenges. By incorporating these perspectives, social work professionals can contribute to meaningful and sustainable changes in tertiary health institutions.
In summary, the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions in Nigeria cannot be underestimated. Research and evidence from various sources emphasize the importance of addressing the psychosocial needs of patients, promoting well-being, and improving overall healthcare quality. By integrating social work professionals into the healthcare system and overcoming barriers to implementation, tertiary health institutions can enhance patient outcomes, satisfaction, and the overall patient experience. The following chapters will further explore this topic and provide insights into the status, challenges, and potential solutions for the provision of medical/healthcare social services in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.
Statement of Problem
The provision of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions in Nigeria, including the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, faces various challenges and limitations. These challenges have significant implications for patient care and the overall quality of healthcare services. Understanding these issues is crucial to improve the delivery of medical/healthcare social services and enhancing patient outcomes.
One of the primary challenges is the limited availability and integration of medical/healthcare social services within tertiary health institutions. Alenoghe, Aigbirenolen, Abjegali, and Ejemai (2017) discuss the constraints in implementing primary healthcare in Nigeria, highlighting gaps in the integration of social work services. The lack of adequate resources, including trained social work professionals and infrastructure, hinders the provision of comprehensive care. This results in a significant gap in addressing the psychosocial needs of patients and their families.
Additionally, there may be a lack of awareness among healthcare professionals and administrators about the importance of medical/healthcare social services. Ambrosino, Heffernan, Shuttlesworth, and Ambrosino (2015) emphasize the role of social work in healthcare settings and the need for collaboration with other healthcare professionals. However, without a clear understanding of the benefits and value of these services, there may be limited support and investment in their integration and implementation.
Furthermore, the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and other tertiary health institutions may face institutional barriers and challenges in providing medical/healthcare social services. These barriers can include bureaucratic processes, inadequate policies and guidelines, and a lack of institutional support for social work professionals. Such barriers can hinder the effective delivery of services and limit the scope of social work practice in healthcare settings.
The relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions in Nigeria needs to be examined within the specific context of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital. The unique challenges faced by this institution, including resource limitations and bureaucratic processes, may further impact the provision of medical/healthcare social services.
Therefore, the primary problem addressed in this study is to assess the current status of medical/healthcare social services in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and identify potential barriers and challenges faced in their implementation. By understanding these challenges, it becomes possible to develop strategies and recommendations to enhance the integration and effectiveness of medical/healthcare social services, ultimately improving patient outcomes and the overall quality of care.
Objectives of the Study
The study aims to achieve the following objectives:
- To assess the current medical/healthcare social services status in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.
- To explore the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals regarding the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions.
- To identify potential barriers and challenges faced in the provision of medical/healthcare social services in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.
Research Questions
The study will address the following research questions:
- What is the current status of medical/healthcare social services at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital?
- How do healthcare professionals perceive the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions?
- What are the barriers and challenges faced in the provision of medical/healthcare social services at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
Based on the objectives and research questions, the following hypotheses will be tested:
- There is no significant association between the availability of medical/healthcare social services and the quality of patient care in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.
- Healthcare professionals who have no positive perception of the relevance of medical/healthcare social services are more likely to support their integration into tertiary health institutions.
- The lack of resources and inadequate institutional support are not significant barriers to the provision of medical/healthcare social services in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.
Significance of the Study
The significance of this study extends to various stakeholders, including students, scholars, stakeholders in the health sector, the University of Abuja, and the Nigerian government. The findings of this study can contribute to the enhancement of medical/healthcare social services and the overall healthcare system in Nigeria.
Firstly, students pursuing healthcare and social work-related fields can benefit from this study. By understanding the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions, students can gain insights into the importance of addressing the psychosocial needs of patients. This knowledge can inform their future practice and encourage them to advocate for the integration of social work services within healthcare settings.
Scholars and researchers in the field of healthcare and social work can also benefit from this study. The findings can serve as a basis for further research and exploration of effective models and interventions for the provision of medical/healthcare social services. By expanding the body of knowledge in this area, scholars can contribute to evidence-based practices and policies that enhance patient outcomes and improve the quality of healthcare services.
Stakeholders in the health sector, including healthcare professionals, administrators, and policymakers, can find value in this study. The findings can raise awareness about the importance of medical/healthcare social services and the need for their integration within tertiary health institutions. By recognizing the relevance of these services, stakeholders can allocate resources and develop policies that support the training, recruitment, and effective deployment of social work professionals in healthcare settings.
The University of Abuja, as the focus of this study, can benefit from the research findings. The study can provide insights into the current status of medical/healthcare social services within the institution and identify potential barriers to their implementation. This information can guide the university in developing strategies to improve the integration and effectiveness of these services. The study can also highlight the importance of collaboration between different departments and disciplines in delivering comprehensive and patient-centred care.
Lastly, the Nigerian government can benefit from this study. The findings can inform policymakers about the challenges and limitations faced in the provision of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions. By recognizing the importance of addressing these challenges, the government can formulate policies and allocate resources to strengthen the integration of social work services within the healthcare system. This can lead to improved patient outcomes, enhanced healthcare quality, and a more holistic approach to healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Overall, the significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute to improved healthcare practices, policies, and education. By highlighting the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions, this research can create a positive impact on the well-being of patients and the overall healthcare system in Nigeria.
Scope of the Study
The scope of this study focused on examining the relevance of medical/healthcare social services in tertiary health institutions, with a specific focus on the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital in Nigeria. The study aimed to explore the current status of medical/healthcare social services within the institution, identify the challenges and barriers to their implementation, and propose recommendations for improvement.
The study primarily focused on the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital as a case study, considering its unique context, resources, and organizational structure. Data was gathered through various methods, such as interviews, surveys, and document analysis, to gain insights into the provision of medical/healthcare social services within the hospital.
The research specifically examined the integration of social work professionals within the healthcare system, the availability and accessibility of medical/healthcare social services, and the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals and patients regarding these services.
It is important to note that the study’s scope was limited to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and may not have fully captured the broader healthcare landscape in Nigeria. However, the findings and recommendations derived from this study offer valuable insights and implications for other tertiary health institutions in the country.
By focusing on a specific institution, this study provided a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in delivering medical/healthcare social services within a tertiary health setting. The scope allowed for an in-depth exploration of the context-specific factors that influenced the provision of these services and provided a foundation for further research and interventions to enhance healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Operational Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and understanding, the following terms are operationally defined for this study:
Medical/Healthcare Social Services: Refers to the services provided by social work professionals within healthcare settings, including assessment, counselling, support, and advocacy for patients and their families.
Tertiary Health Institutions:Â Refers to advanced healthcare facilities that provide specialized medical services, education, and research, such as the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital.
Relevance: Refers to the degree to which medical/healthcare social services contribute to improved patient outcomes, satisfaction, and overall healthcare quality.
Barriers: Refers to factors or obstacles that hinder the effective provision of medical/healthcare social services, such as limited resources, lack of awareness, and inadequate institutional support.
Organization of the Study
The study was organized into five chapters. Chapter one served as the introduction, providing an overview of the research topic, objectives, research questions, hypotheses, and significance of the study. Chapter two reviewed relevant literature on medical/healthcare social services, their importance, and challenges in tertiary health institutions. Chapter three outlined the research methodology, including the research design, data collection, and analysis procedures. Chapter four presented the findings of the study, followed by a discussion of the results in chapter five. The study concluded with recommendations, limitations, and suggestions for future research.
REFERENCES
- Onwujekwe, O., Odii, A., Mbachu, C., Hutchinson, E., Ichoku, H., Ogbozor, P., Agwu, P., Obi, U., & Balabanova, D. (2018). Corruption in the Nigerian health sector has many faces. How to fix it. Retrieved from https://theconversation.com/corruption-in-the-nigerian-health-sector-has-many-faces-how-to-fix-it-99043.
- Onyekwere, S. (2017). Jubilation welcomes Senate passage of social work bill. GongNews. Retrieved from http://gongnews.net/jubilation-welcomes-senate-passage-social-work-bill/
- Parast, M. M., & Alaii, K. S. (2020). The role of social work in the healthcare system and its impact on patient satisfaction: A literature review. Journal of Social Work in Health Care, 59(6), 489-504.
- Potyraj, J.A. (2016). Importance of Medical Social Workers. Retrieved from www.ajmc.com-julie-potyraj-2016/03.
- Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2020). Research methods for business students. Pearson Education Limited.
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