Have you thanked a social worker lately? Social workers stand up for millions of people every day, including those experiencing devastating illnesses, mental health crises, our veterans, children, families and countless others in our communities.

As vital members of the health care team, medical social workers provide valuable services to patients who are in the midst of challenging medical issues. With care and compassion, the medical social workers at Aultman work with a patient’s family and other health service providers to administer the support and resources that patients need in order to fully recover from a medical illness or injury.

Celebrated each March, National Professional Social Work Month is an opportunity for social workers across the country to turn the spotlight on their profession and highlight the important contributions they make. To honor the occasion this year, Aultman College would like to bring special attention to the upcoming social work degree program that will be offered in fall 2018.

With the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicating that employment for medical social workers is projected to grow by about 27 percent before 2022 due to the increased need for health care services, this new program offering can’t come at a better time. To develop the curriculum and prepare for incoming students, Aultman College is proud to welcome their new program director, Ron Davis, MSW.

Davis began his role as director of the social work program at Aultman College in January. Previously, he served as director for social support services at Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care. He also taught undergraduate courses at the University of Akron.

Davis is overseeing the development of a bachelor’s degree-level social work program and is leading efforts for approval with the necessary accrediting bodies. The social work program will fulfill a growing need for social workers in health care roles. These social workers can assist clients in understanding and navigating an increasingly complicated environment, particularly in the areas of mental health counseling and addiction services.

For more information on the upcoming social work program, check out the Aultman College website for updates.