If you're feeling completely overwhelmed by all the decision-making, don't despair. A hospital social worker may be able to help you sort through insurance and Medicare, find financial aid, and contact local care facilities. Hospital social workers tend to have a lot of demands on their time, so if you can't find one to assist you, you may want to consider hiring a care manager. Like a social worker, a care manager can help you research local care facilities and figure out your finances. He can also help you communicate with other family members, work with the doctors and rehabilitation team, and figure out creative options for getting what your family needs. Ask a hospital social worker for a referral, and be sure to check the care manager's references so you know he has done a good job for other families in your area.
