Medical Social Work in Neurosurgery
The Medical Social Workers on the Neurosurgery Team are Louise Donegan, Martina Nash, Roisin Grimes and Michelle D’Alton. We are all based in the Medical Social Work Department on the first floor of the OPD building. The contact number is 01-8784212.
We accept referrals from parents, the multi-disciplinary team (e.g. nursing staff, doctors, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychology, chaplain, speech and language therapists, etc.) and outside agencies.
Medical Social Work provide support with the following:
- New diagnosis of serious illness/ condition/ disability
- Social assessment & support
- Parenting support
- Sibling support and advice
- Practical support
- Discharge planning
- Liaison with community supports
- Palliative / end of life care
- Bereavement support
- Child welfare/Child protection
Role of Medical Social Worker
Medical Social Workers work as part of the Neurosurgery multi-disciplinary team. Our primary focus is the emotional and social impact of illness and hospitalisation on the lives of our patients and their families.
- Emotional Support
When a child receives a new diagnosis of a serious illness/condition it can be a very difficult and upsetting experience for the whole family. The Medical Social Worker can provide counselling to parents to support them and their family during the hospital stay and if required following discharge from hospital.
- Practical Support & Resources
Medical Social Workers can provide information and assistance with benefits and financial entitlements where applicable (e.g. Medical card, Domiciliary Care Allowance etc).
Martina Nash
Roisin Grimes
Michelle Dalton
Louise Donegan
