Evaluation of Medical Social Workers Epidemic's Control Response in Oyo-East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria
The role of medical social workers in the healthcare system is increasingly recognized as essential, particularly in the context of epidemic control and public health awareness. In regions like Oyo East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria, the contributions of medical social workers become vital in addressing health crises, such as the recent outbreak of Marburg hemorrhagic fever. This study aims to explore the multifaceted responsibilities of medical social workers, the challenges they face, and the strategies they adopt in curtailing the spread of epidemics while promoting public health awareness. The study has a qualitative design such that Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were carried out to obtain rich qualitative data. Purposive sampling was employed to select seven (7) participants. Two (2) respondents each representing community leaders, medical social workers, top civil servants in the Primary Health Centers (PHCs) including the Executive Chairman of Oyo East Local Government. Through the use of content analysis, the findings highlight the essential role of medical social workers in curtailing epidemic outbreaks; they are instrumental in raising community awareness on public health guidelines. Their proactive community engagement in public enlightenment programs has been crucial in preventing further health complications in the community. Inadequate welfare support and significant workplace risks identified as part of their challenges. The study then recommends the need for adequate funding of the activities and welfare package in order to motivate them to be more proactive in the cause of performing their official duties without any hesitation.
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