Social Work Services

Social Work Services
Healthstyles Physical Therapy is a Medicare certified clinic, so the services of a medical social worker must be available to all patients who receive services on the premises, or for those patients who receive care at home. There is no charge for this service.
The social worker is available, on an as-needed basis, to answer any questions regarding a patient’s medical condition, treatment, future planning, and/or related needs/issues. Patients have many questions regarding insurance coverage or benefits available.
Sometimes, patients may need to be referred to community-based services or agencies for assistance, such as the Social Security Administration, Department of Social Services, or Michigan Rehabilitation Services. The social worker can explain these services, as well as many other services, and make appropriate referrals.
Patients may sometimes have a need for counseling or mental health services in relation to their current medical condition. Other patients may have counseling needs for problems that existed before they became ill/injured/disabled. The social worker can provide short-term counseling, or can refer the patient to an appropriate clinic for long-term, or medically managed, mental health services.
Many patients have questions or concerns regarding their return to work. The social worker addresses these issues as well. The social worker will generally contact patients by phone. Should a need arise for a personal appointment, either at the clinic, or in the home of “home care” patients, the social worker will contact the patient to arrange the details.
Staff: Leslie Azal Nilsson, M.S.W., C.S.W.	Professional Affiliations NASW