The initial steps of the Generalist Intervention Model support engagement and building of rapport...

The initial steps of the Generalist Intervention Model support engagement and building of rapport between a patient and a social worker. Medical social workers are trained to be effective listeners and communicators. Given their unique skills, medical social workers are often called upon to support and navigate the relationships between patients and other providers on the health care team as advocates, liaisons, and mediators.

To prepare for this Discussion:

Consider patient–provider communications as an integral part of delivering social work services to patients. Review this week’s resources and think about how to deliver effective communications within t.

Post a description of the importance of patient–provider communication. Be sure to address the relationship between patient–provider communications and illness outcomes. Identify a minimum of three factors that might lead to poor patient–provider communications. Provide your rationale. Explain the ways patient–provider communications might be improved. Then, explain the role culture plays in patient–provider communications. Finally, explain the roles of a social worker in assisting a patient to improve communications with other members of the health care team.