The client group covers the entire spectrum of residents of the Missoula community with special emphasis on high risk groups such as the elderly, the handicapped, economically disadvantaged and critically ill patients. The social worker participates as a member of the various rehabilitation teams. The students placed at CMC have the opportunity to work with a large number of clients on a short-term basis. Because of the extensive use of formal and informal resources in the course of arranging discharge plans, the student gains knowledge of a broad range of local, state and federal programs. The student interacts with all age groups from both rural and urban settings.
Emphasis is placed on working with the family as well as the patient.
Basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, aging and psychological adjustment to illness and disability is helpful to interpret the social implications of medical conditions. Because of the rapid turnover of patients it is necessary for the student to be present at the hospital in the mornings. In addition, because of the time needed to become familiar with the complex hospital organization of which Social Services is a part, a two semester placement is required. A student wishing to apply for a practicum placement at Community Medical Center is encouraged to prepare a resume and phone for an application appointment with Randy Wood.