Enhancing Access to Income Support for Vulnerable Hospital Patients

Abstract

ABSTRACT Sudden illness or hospitalisation can exacerbate financial hardship. This paper explores the impact of an Australian hospital-based pilot program designed to remove barriers to government-funded income support for vulnerable patients. Interviews with patients (n = 9) and hospital social workers (n = 13) described the participant experience. Patients identified that the service was convenient, provided relevant information, clarified eligibility, simplified application processes, and reduced stress. Social workers reported that the service saved time, increased access to income support, and facilitated timely discharges where financial barriers existed. We suggest that health and social services partnerships have a potential to improve patient outcomes and service efficiency. IMPLICATIONS A 12-month pilot partnership program between social work staff at Western Health and the Centrelink Community Engagement Officer (CEO) indicated improved access to income support for patients and reported savings in social work staff and patient time. Further research is needed to explore the potential for partnerships between health and social care to deliver integrated psychosocial care to vulnerable patients in hospital, improve patient outcomes, and increase the efficiency of hospital services.