The Role of Social Workers in Supporting Vulnerable Populations During Public Health Crises: Review

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical role of social workers in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, homeless individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Despite their essential contributions, research has primarily focused on healthcare professionals, leaving a gap in understanding the impact of social work during public health crises.

Methods: This review synthesizes existing literature on the role of social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on their interventions, challenges, and contributions to vulnerable communities. It analyzes data from various studies to highlight the social vulnerabilities exacerbated by the pandemic and the responses initiated by frontline social workers.

Results: Findings reveal that social workers played a pivotal role in mitigating the adverse effects of COVID-19 on marginalized groups. Their interventions included providing mental health support, facilitating access to essential services, and advocating for policy changes to better serve disadvantaged populations. However, challenges such as inadequate resources, high demand for services, and the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) hindered their effectiveness.

Conclusion: The pandemic has illuminated the indispensable role of social workers in public health crises. Enhancing training, resource allocation, and inter-professional collaboration will be vital for improving their capacity to support vulnerable populations in future emergencies. Continued research is essential to fully understand the complex dynamics of social work during such crises and to inform policy and practice.