The PCN Social Work Program was created to address social determinants of health for people with a variety of challenges, including housing, financial hardship, social isolation and more. 

Family Physicians and Nurse Practitioner in Surrey-North Delta can refer their patients via Referral Tracker. (Learn more about Referral Tracker HERE.)

Dr. Uzair Sheik and Dr. Nicole Soltermann are among a growing number of Family Physicians who have already referred patients to the PCN Social Work program. Here are their impressions.

 

Thinking of a recent referral to the PCN Social Work Program, what was the reason for sending the referral? Was this a regular or urgent referral?

 

Dr. Sheik: A patient was having a housing crisis so I referred them to the PCN Social Work Program to receive help. It was a somewhat urgent referral.

 

How soon after your referral did a social worker contact your patient? What was communication like with the social worker who assisted your patient?

 

Dr. Sheik: They contacted the patient within 48 hours. The communication was very good; the patient's issue was handled in a timely fashion.

Dr. Soltermann: The referral process was straightforward. I received a notification from the social worker outlining the assessment and care plan along with their contact information.

 

Was your patient's issue resolved satisfactorily?

 

Dr. Sheik: The patient was very satisfied with the advice from the social worker and felt empowered.

Dr. Soltermann: My patient was contacted promptly by the the social worker and given the help she needed.

 

What would you like to say to other FPs about the PCN Social Work Program?

 

Dr. Sheik: I have been very pleased with the social worker program and would be happy to communicate this to other Family Physicians

Dr. Soltermann: I am happy to have access to this much needed resource!