Contribution of Social Work Interventions to Patients’ Healthcare Outcomes in Tanzanian Zonal Hospitals: A Biopsychosocial Model Perspective

Social work marked a significant evolution in healthcare, emphasizing holistic care by integrating social, psychological, and biological aspects. This study examined the contributions of social work interventions to patients’ healthcare outcomes in Tanzanian zonal hospitals. Objectives included assessing the relevance and impacts of social work interventions in healthcare. The study was guided by the biopsychosocial model, employing a mixedmethod approach with a convergent design. A sample of 106 participants (67 doctors, 16 social workers, 5 administrators, and 18 patients) was selected through stratified, simple random, purposive, and convenience sampling. Data collection tools included questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Results were presented using tables, narratives, themes, and quotations. Necessary permits and informed consent were obtained before data collection. The study revealed that an overwhelming majority of medical doctors (92.2%) acknowledge the importance of integrating social work into healthcare and great majority (87.78%) agree that these interventions significantly improve patient healthcare outcomes. Additionally, key informants (Social workers and Hospital Administrators) confirmed these responses and opined that social work interventions contribute significantly on patients’ overall healthcare outcomes. The study concluded that the role of social workers remains vital to holistic healthcare delivery hence recommend continue improvement in social work practices to enhance their contribution to the healthcare outcomes.