My name is Justin Lawrence, MSW, '13 and I am a licensed social worker as of 2015, working at Stony Brook Medicine primarily covering the emergency room. The emergency department outside of a pandemic has its own unique challenges and obstacles, with a pace that often feels fixed on a fast forward loop. The ramifications of COVID-19 have increased the intensity and severity of all the issues that our community face daily. For example, the impact of extended quarantine has caused an increase in substance abuse and domestic violence cases. Many of these cases may not have been seen in the emergency department for months due to the fear of it being a breeding ground for COVID-19. My role has been one that wears many hats and often wearing those hats at the same time. Being the liaison between the community and hospital it gives social workers a special opportunity to advocate for our patients and bring insight to the medical team of the new barriers throughout this pandemic. The role function of the emergency room social worker is one that is not able to be moved remotely. To provide crisis interventions to patients and staff, the social work team have been on the front line right along with all the other healthcare providers. I have learned that as healthcare workers we are far more resilient than we intended on finding out. The daily policy changes that affect the way we discharge our patients rapidly fluctuate day to day. Every process has been impacted by new challenges, however I am thankful to be part of the Stony Brook Medicine team. Through this trying time, the resources our institution have access to have been able to provide creative solutions and allow us to provide the quality of care with an increased sense of empathy and compassion for our patients. At a time where social distancing is heavily enforced, we have utilized technology to bridge the gap which has allowed our patients to interact with their loved ones. Being able to be a part of that process makes me feel I am doing my part to serve the community.
One experience that hit close to home was realizing that those coming into the ED with severe COVID-19 symptoms would potentially not see their family again. The social worker in the ED provided that emotional support with the family in the waiting room and provided some guidance on what was next to come. From where we were to where we are now I am hopeful we will get through this despite the fatigue and worry.
