Which role is responsible for developing a comprehensive care plan?

The role of developing a comprehensive care plan is fundamentally geared towards the responsibility of a social worker within a health facility. Social workers are trained to assess the psychosocial needs of clients, considering their emotional, social, and environmental factors. In creating a comprehensive care plan, social workers utilize their skills to identify resources and support systems necessary for holistic patient care.

They work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to ensure that all aspects of a patient's well-being are considered, which is crucial for effective care management. A comprehensive care plan often integrates contributions from various team members, but it is the social worker’s expertise in managing and navigating social services and community resources that positions them as the leader in this process.

While registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and medical doctors play significant roles in patient care and may contribute to elements of the care plan, especially regarding medical and nursing interventions, the social worker's role emphasizes a more systemic approach to patient care coordination, which is vital in developing a comprehensive care plan that addresses the broader complexities of a patient's needs.