A comparative systematic review of psychosocial outcomes of medical social work-led interventions in hospital and community health settings (2015–2025)

Abstract

This review compares the influence of hospital and community settings on psychosocial outcomes in interventions led by medical social workers. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology (2015–2025), 30 studies were selected. Findings indicate that psychosocial outcomes vary according to institutional and ecological contexts, including resource availability and mechanisms of community engagement. Hospital-based programs involve emotional stabilization and preparation for discharge, while community-based programs involve resilience-building, empowerment, and involvement in society. There is no single standardized intervention model, but common elements can be identified, involving the family, coordination at discharge with practical resilience measures or structural principles applicable to integrated psychosocial care.