Perception of Frontline Social Workers' Role in Healthcare Sector Combating COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu: A Phenomenological Study.

Abstract

COVID-19 emerged as a global pandemic of the twenty-first century. It has created a huge burden on society. More specifically, it has turned into one of the health risks that threaten to undermine societal order in general. The global effort to save humanity from this public health crisis is heavily reliant on professional social workers. According to the study's qualitative findings and perspectives on social workers' experiences in the health sector, the COVID-19 response is addressed. This study explores the function and difficulties faced by frontline social workers through an empirical phenomenological approach. Primary data for this study was gathered from 20 social workers from the leading healthcare institutions in Tamil Nadu using purposive and snowball sampling. The study focuses on three key conclusions, including the requirement for interdisciplinary expertise to address the multifaceted effects of pandemics, perceived difficulties in pandemic practice, and obstacles in service provision. The report offers recommendations for advancing social work initiatives as a conclusion. It also explains how modern social work may benefit healthcare facilities better in the fight against the pandemic.