How Social Workers Support Patients Beyond Medicine
When we think of healthcare, we often picture doctors and nurses—but social workers, who typically work behind the scenes, are the unsung heroes providing indispensable emotional, financial, and logistical resources for patients, caregivers, and families. At Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital (EBCH), we understand that much of what determines your health and well-being happens outside our doors, which is why our social workers play such a vital role in the comprehensive care we provide you.
The Bridge Between Healthcare and Daily Life
Healthcare social workers serve as navigators, advocates, and problem-solvers for patients during some very vulnerable moments—life-changing, and even end-of-life situations. They help coordinate care transitions, connect patients with community resources, and ensure that after-visit summaries and plans coincide with the patients’ real-world circumstances.
Many patients don’t realize that social workers can help with everything from understanding insurance coverage to finding needed transportation to and from medical appointments, explains Linda O’Neill DeRemee, who has served Ely and the communities it serves as a social worker at EBCH for four years.
While our physicians and therapists focus on diagnosing and treating medical conditions, our social workers complement their care by addressing the social determinants of health—the conditions in which people live, learn, work, and play. These factors, including housing stability, food security, and social support, often have a significant impact on overall health outcomes and treatment success.
Meet Our Social Work Team
EBCH is fortunate to have two dedicated social workers supporting our patients and community:
Linda O’Neill DeRemee has served as a social worker at EBCH for four years, touching countless lives throughout her career. Linda is now beginning a well deserved transition to retirement.
Hailey Brondum brings valuable expertise to our social work team and has been working alongside Linda during this succession period, combining her fresh perspectives with Linda’s institutional knowledge.
We asked them to share some insights about their important work
What do you wish everyone knew about healthcare social work?
Linda: Social workers aren’t just for helping with ‘social problems.’ We’re part of the medical team, helping ensure that patients can successfully follow their doctor’s recommendations and help them plan around any barriers that might stand in their way. Whether it’s explaining complex medical terminology or insurance information, coordinating home care services, or finding financial assistance for medications, we’re here to help with the real-life challenges that impact health.
Hailey: Many patients don’t realize they can ask to speak with a social worker directly. You don’t need to be referred by your doctor—though they often do make referrals to us. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with your care plan, unsure about next steps after being discharged, or concerned about how you’ll manage at home, please ask to meet with us.
Why did you choose social work as your profession?
Linda: I became interested in healthcare and wanted to work with people. The field of Social Work addressed both of these. As a Social Worker we look at the whole person and take into account all the surrounding factors affecting them.
Hailey: I chose social work because I love working with people and wanted to learn as much as I could to help those people. I feel that everyone can always use help in any situation in life. Learning how to offer that was my goal. I love helping individuals find their shine and achieve their goals.
What’s the best place to find resources when you need help?
Linda: Start with us! Even if we don’t have the exact resources you need, we can point you in the right direction. Knowing who to call in our area can save precious time and frustration. We maintain connections with services throughout St. Louis County and beyond.
Hailey: I recommend the Minnesota Help Info line at 211, a state resource that can connect people with many different services. But remember that online directories can’t replace the one-to-one guidance Linda or I can provide. We consider your unique situation and can advocate for you.
How Social Workers Support EBCH Patients
Our social workers provide a wide range of services, including:
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- Care Coordination: Working with your healthcare team to ensure seamless transitions between clinic, hospital, home, rehabilitation facilities, or long-term care.
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- Resource Navigation: Connecting patients with home care, hospice, meals-on-wheels, medical equipment, affordable medication options, and community support services or organizations.
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- Emotional Support: Providing counseling and crisis intervention for patients and families coping with illness or loss.
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- Advocacy: Helping patients understand their rights and navigate complex healthcare and insurance systems or apply for financial assistance programs.
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- Discharge Planning: Creating plans for you to recover at home following a hospital stay.
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- Advanced Directives and End-of-Life Decision Planning: Guiding conversations about your future care preferences and documenting important healthcare decisions.
The Impact of Social Work in Rural Healthcare
In rural communities like Ely, hospital social workers play an especially crucial role. With fewer specialized resources nearby, social workers become expert navigators about area services and create creative solutions to meet patient needs.
Living in a rural area presents unique challenges for healthcare, notes Hailey. Transportation to appointments can be difficult, especially during winter months. Internet access for telehealth might be limited. And sometimes, the closest specialized service might be hours away. Our job is to help patients navigate these barriers.
Reaching Out for Support
If you or a loved one could benefit from social work services at EBCH, you can:
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- Call 218-365-3271 and ask to speak with a social worker.
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- Mention your interest during an upcoming appointment.
Our social work services are available to both inpatients and outpatients, reflecting our commitment to comprehensive care for Ely and the communities it serves.
