When the cancer treatments started we contacted her also and she never called. That was 4 to 6 months ago. Then recently 2 times. No call back. I was wondering if we just need to find someone else. This one is the one the chemo dr is affiliated with. Can you just call the Dr and ask for someone else? I’ve just never had to do this before and I thought it was easier to get help
What message did you leave? And what sort of support are you enquiring about?
I should call your doctor and ask what to do. My first guess is that the SW is rushed off her feet, and that a client who called once over four months ago is not absolutely top of her list right now; but of course I don't know - maybe it's even just a question of using a different telephone number, or something as simple as that.
Does Mom have Medicaid or any long term care insurance? These could potentially pay for non medical caregivers in the home. Is she or her husband (X, passed or living) a veteran to apply for VA Aid and Attendance for spouses? It does take time but may be worth the application. A Geriatric Care Manager can help with all this and will identify any possible assistance available.
If this is an absolute no go, the Medical Social Worker or Oncology Social Worker associated with the MD would be knowledgeable in your mom's diagnosis and medical issues and can provide additional education and support in addition to resources. I would call the MD or the cancer center and speak to the Director if Social Services or Case/Care Management. Other than the current pandemic, I do find it odd that the SW has not called you back in that many months. Is the SW part time or per diem?
Likely your SW is handling sicker patients right now, and while that is what s/he should be doing, no doubt you feel left out.
You can ask for a different SW, but these times are calling for all of us to be patient and tolerant.
You need to call the doctor who set this up and tell him the SW is not returning calls.
My question is though, what can a SW do if Mom having problems medically. They are not Nurses. They are more experienced in finding resources you may need. Helping with paperwork.
I do agree, that she should have returned ur call even if she is not the person you should talk to. If this Dr. is paying for her services, he needs to know that she is returning calls.
It should not be this hard to get the courtesy of a return phone call.
You should not have to tolerate being ignored when facing cancer.
May God give your mom a complete healing from the cancer. Hugs!