This is a common point of confusion. It’s important to mention that both medical social workers and other hospital social workers help patients overcome difficult situations and guide them throughout their hospitalization. However, there are certain differences in what the two types of social workers are licensed to do. For example, a regular social worker can provide patients with financial guidance, help them find transportation to and from the hospital, and give them home-care equipment. They do not, however, provide treatment. Medical social workers offer counseling and treatment for a patient’s conditions.