Tips and Tools for Social Workers

The month of June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) acknowledges the important role social workers play in treating individuals and families impacted by PTSD.

Social media continues to be an integral part of our lives and has become a valuable tool to connect with others. Mental health providers such as clinical social workers may also use social media to share resources, promote their place of business, and connect with other professionals. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) acknowledges the impact of social media on the profession, as it urges clinical social workers to understand and employ proper etiquette to ensure effective and professional communication. Here are some tips on how clinical social workers can use social media responsibly and professionally.

Join NASW in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM) in May. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and currently in its 60th year, Older Americans Month acknowledges the contributions and achievements of older adults, highlights important trends, and strengthens our commitment to honoring older people in our communities. The 2023 theme, Aging Unbound, explores the diversity of aging experiences. It also invites us to challenge the dominant narrative on aging by seeking fulfillment as we age.

The No Surprises Act seeks to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Clinical social workers and other health care provider types must provide a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for items and services to individuals who are uninsured or self-pay.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is proud to announce that May is Mental Health Awareness Month! During this month, the association recognizes the importance of mental health, and the vital role social workers play in supporting people with mental illness.
This month will serve as an opportunity for social workers to come together and discuss important topics related to mental health, from identifying signs and symptoms of mental health problems to finding ways to build healthy coping strategies.

In December 2022, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule (CMS–4201–P) addressing a few parts of the Medicare program: Part C, or Medicare Advantage (MA); the Part D prescription drug benefit; and the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). The proposed regulations, if finalized, will be implemented on January 1, 2024.

NASW submitted comments on the proposed rule in February 2023. The association’s comments addressed numerous topics, a few of which are summarized briefly in this Tips & Tools.