H. E. Eweka

This study assessed the roles and importance of social workers in managing terminal illness, using the Palliative Care Unit of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State, as the study area. Terminal illnesses often present complex medical, psychological, and social challenges for patients and their families, thereby requiring comprehensive support beyond medical treatment. The study adopted a survey research design, with data collected through structured questionnaires administered to patients and significant others within the palliative care unit. A total of 150 questionnaires were distributed, out of which 130 were successfully retrieved and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods such as frequency counts and simple percentages.
Findings from the study revealed that patients with terminal illnesses experience significant psychological and emotional challenges, including difficulty adapting to lifestyle changes and treatment demands. The results also indicated that family members and caregivers often experience emotional distress and reduced personal time due to caregiving responsibilities. Furthermore, the study showed that social workers play a critical role in providing psychosocial support, counseling, care coordination, advocacy, and linkage to social resources for both patients and their families. However, the findings also highlighted limited awareness among some respondents regarding the roles of social workers in healthcare settings. The study concludes that social workers are essential in promoting holistic care and improving the quality of life of terminally ill patients. It therefore recommends increased awareness, institutional support, and integration of social workers into multidisciplinary healthcare teams to enhance palliative care services