Effectiveness of the Bridge Model in Improving Professional Performance of Social Workers in Hospital Settings: A Systematic Review

Background: Social workers play a vital role in hospitals by providing psychosocial support, facilitating multidisciplinary collaboration, and linking patients with community resources. However, their professional performance often remains constrained by traditional practices and limited integration with modern theoretical models. This study aims to propose a framework for activating the professional performance of social workers in hospitals through the Bridge Model, emphasizing its application at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital. Methods: The research adopted an analytical and descriptive approach, combining theoretical review of professional performance concepts and the Bridge Model with structured observation of social work practices in the hospital setting. Key elements such as professional knowledge, skills, ethics, and institutional support were examined, alongside challenges affecting social workers’ ability to meet patients’ complex needs. Results: Findings revealed a gap between theoretical knowledge and applied practice, with social workers facing barriers including administrative overload, limited training opportunities, and weak institutional-community integration. The proposed framework highlights four components: the coordinating role of social workers, the use of bridging tools (digital files and referral systems), professional training and development, and systematic monitoring and evaluation. Implementation requires multi-level interventions—organizational, professional, and community-based—supported by policies, training programs, and partnerships with civil society. Conclusion: Activating the Bridge Model in hospital settings can enhance the professional performance of social workers by ensuring holistic, continuous, and integrated care. The framework strengthens their role as mediators between healthcare institutions and community resources, thereby improving the quality of life of vulnerable patients—particularly children with cancer and chronic illnesses.