Welcome to the Social Workers Interest Group page!

Since the early days of EDTNA/ERCA, the psychological needs of our patients have been given a high priority. The social work members have played a major role in the development, not only of the association but also in raising awareness of the psychological needs of patients and their families.

Living on dialysis is not easy. Patients complain of the uncertainties and the loss of control they have over their lives. All of us have a role to play in ensuring that our patients can achieve the best quality of life given their particular circumstances.

Throughout the years the social work group has played a major role raising awareness of these issues through various publications and during our International and National Conferences.

Topics including pre-dialysis assessment, patient and family support, coping with denial, loss and compliance issues have all been discussed. In the early days, the value of holiday dialysis was highlighted through an international research project. Workshops on impotence, listening skills, coping with aggression, withdrawing treatment and quality of life issues have all been held. We are committed to multi-disciplinary education, training and care.

Our main meeting is held during the Annual Conference where we propose and discuss the topics and goals for the coming year. Along with other disciplines within the association a Special Interest Group of Social Workers has been formed to take these issues forward.

To review the list of Social Workers Interest Group Members (including pictures and bios) please visit the Leadership Directory.

To review the list of publications and resources developed by the Social Workers Interest Group click here.

For more information about the Social Workers Interest Group, please contact Madelon Kleingeld.