Those who have the mission to 'ignite' hope in patients.
In the hospital environment—where hope and loss intertwine—there is a team that silently dedicates themselves. Though they don't wear white coats, these social workers bring healing through their compassionate hearts, alleviating pain and empowering patients on their recovery journey.
Silently accompanying patients.
Every day, social workers at Vinh City General Hospital stand by the side of patients. They not only guide them through administrative procedures and answer thousands of calls, but also listen attentively, provide timely answers, and offer support to patients.
Although not directly involved in treatment, social workers are an indispensable part of patients' treatment and recovery journeys. As those tasked with "healing," social workers understand that sometimes, a comforting smile or a timely handshake becomes invaluable emotional support for those battling illness. For patients facing difficulties, they act as connectors, opening doors of hope through sharing and connecting them with benevolent individuals, providing assistance and strength to help patients overcome their challenges.
Driven by a desire to provide patients with useful health care knowledge and foster a sense of connection and compassion among those in similar circumstances, the social work team has created practical programs such as "Laughing Yoga," "Reading Station for Children," and "Supporting Dialysis Patients." These small but heartfelt activities have helped alleviate suffering, instill confidence, and motivate patients to overcome difficulties.
Rekindling hope for the recovery of patients.
Hundreds of thousands of patients have received dedicated support, and hundreds of patients facing difficulties have received timely assistance, opening up opportunities to access medical services and recover. This is vivid evidence of the dedication of the social work team at Vinh City General Hospital.
Take the story of Mr. Moong Van Khanh, a Khmu ethnic minority from the mountainous Ky Son region. After an accident that fractured his left femur, he thought his life would be forever confined to a bed. His family was poor, the roads were difficult to travel, and the treatment costs were beyond his means. Fortunately, the hospital's social work team acted as a bridge, mobilizing resources to support him and giving him the opportunity to continue his treatment.
Mr. Moong Van Khanh said emotionally, "Thanks to the dedication of the social workers, I was admitted to Vinh City General Hospital and received timely financial support for treatment. The doctors performed surgery and provided intensive treatment, and my legs have recovered, allowing me to continue my work in the fields and my daily life. I am extremely grateful to the hospital and the social workers for accompanying me and helping me find joy in life again."
Or consider the touching story of Mr. D.V. H (66 years old, Vinh City), who was being treated in the Intensive Care Unit without any family members by his side. Social workers acted as both active companions and a bridge of love, appealing to philanthropists to join hands in supporting him and helping him overcome the critical stage with the large treatment costs.
In addition, the "Giving Hope - Lighting Up Hope" program is an initiative specifically for patients with chronic kidney disease, those who relentlessly persevere through the challenging journey of dialysis.
Beyond providing material support, social workers at Vinh City General Hospital also offer patients moments of relaxation through singing, laughter yoga exercises to relieve stress, and sincere encouragement through stories and books; helping them confidently face each new day.
Sharing about the quiet profession of accompanying and "healing" patients,Ms. Thai Thi My Hanh, M.Sc. - Head of Social Work DepartmentSharing her thoughts, she said, "Every patient who comes to the hospital carries their own worries and desperately needs support. Understanding their plight, we are always conscious of our mission to accompany and assist them wholeheartedly and responsibly, as if they were our own loved ones. The joy and happiness of patients when they receive sharing and help from social workers is the motivation that makes us love our profession even more each day."
The struggles of the "healing" profession
Regardless of their position, those involved in healthcare always face numerous difficulties and challenges that require effort and dedication, and social work is no exception. With over 3,000 patients visiting daily, social workers face significant pressure in coordinating and guiding the patient flow in a flexible and efficient manner.
However, sometimes social workers are not properly understood and appreciated by patients for their unique profession. Therefore, social workers are always aware that the profession they are dedicated to is not just about charity or showing temporary kindness, but demands professionalism and a wide range of skills; each situation requires sensitivity, delicate handling, and a compassionate heart.
Like healthcare workers, social workers also constantly face the risk of infection, especially during epidemic seasons.
Despite the numerous difficulties and challenges, the social work team is always proud to be the ones who instill hope in patients; they always strive to ensure that no one is left behind. They offer love, alleviate the difficulties of patients and the burdens of their families; making the hospital a warm and welcoming "second home."
