A Proposed Vision of the Social Worker’s Role as a Mediator between Medical Institutions and Forensic Medicine in Cases of Medical Errors

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to develop a proposed concept of the social worker’s role as a professional mediator between medical institutions and forensic medicine in cases of medical error in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study relied on a social survey method with a sample, and the sample consisted of (182) social workers distributed among a number of government and private hospitals, primary health centers, and other medical facilities. Based on the study results, a proposed vision for the role of the social worker as a mediator between medical institutions and forensic medicine was formulated, consistent with the professional principles of social work and the requirements of the Saudi healthcare environment. The most prominent tasks proposed for the social worker in this context include professional mediation between medical teams and forensic investigation authorities to bring viewpoints closer in medical error cases; analyzing the psychological and social dimensions associated with a controversial medical case; and providing a professional report that supports balanced decision-making. They also include ensuring effective human communication between patients and their families, and the medical team and investigation authorities, on the other. They also contribute to reducing legal escalation by providing psychological and social support and interpreting legal procedures for patients. They also provide ethical and professional advice to medical teams regarding the effects of medical errors on patients from a social and human perspective.