Social work in psychiatric home care: regulations, roles, and realities.
Home care services for people with psychiatric diagnoses are increasing in popularity with consumers, providers, and insurance companies. Traditionally, home care social workers have not provided in-home clinical services because of restrictive regulations and industry culture. This article presents strategies for establishing a clinical role for social workers in a psychiatric home care program that meets Medicare, Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, and NASW standards. A discussion of skills requirements, appropriate case assignment, professional role clarifications and differentiations, and marketing strategies is presented.
Byrne
J
J
Inova Health System, 8003 Forbes Place, Springfield, VA 22151, USA.
D019090:Case Management; D006699:Home Care Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D007591:Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations; D006278:Medicare; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D010561:Personnel Staffing and Scheduling; D024382:Professional Role; D012949:Social Work, Psychiatric / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards*; D012952:Societies; D014481:United States; D000078329:Workforce