Prevalence and Acceptability of Dedicated Social Work Support in the Fracture Clinic: A Survey of Orthopaedic Trauma Surgeons

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of social work services in outpatient fracture clinics, and the potential benefits and barriers to integrating these services as perceived by orthopaedic trauma surgeons. METHODOLOGICAL DESIGN AND JUSTIFICATION: Cross-sectional survey of orthopaedic trauma surgeons. ETHICAL ISSUES AND APPROVAL: Approved by the Hamilton Integrated Research Ethics Board, #16227 RESEARCH METHODS, INSTRUMENTS AND/OR INTERVENTIONS: A brief, anonymous, self-administered online survey. RESULTS: Of 88 respondents, 16% currently had dedicated social work services available at their clinic. Respondents expressed strong agreement that social workers could effectively address various patient needs, including assistance with intimate partner violence (88.6%), transportation (86.4%), home care (85.2%) and addictions support (81.8%). Respondents acknowledged the critical need for social work services in the fracture clinic, particularly in addressing employment, psychological support and housing crises. STUDY LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by a small sample size and possible selection bias. Due to the anonymous online distribution, determining the rate of response was not possible. CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the potential for enhanced patient care through interdisciplinary collaboration and social work support in outpatient orthopaedic trauma settings.