Medical social workers play an indispensable role in hospice settings by addressing the multifaceted needs of patients and their families during end-of-life care. This paper focuses on how their expertise in psychosocial assessment, care planning, advocacy, counseling, and resource coordination ensures holistic, patient-centered care that integrates clinical and emotional support. Medical social workers foster culturally sensitive practices through interdisciplinary collaboration, enhance communication among care teams, and provide tailored interventions that address emotional, social, and spiritual concerns. This integration improves the quality of life for patients and alleviates emotional and systemic burdens on healthcare infrastructures. In addition to their immediate contributions, medical social workers support sustainable healthcare systems by promoting health equity and addressing disparities in hospice care. Their work aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by ensuring equitable access to compassionate care for marginalized populations. Furthermore, their efforts to empower communities, advocate for cost-effective care strategies, and integrate social and medical perspectives contribute to the long-term resilience of healthcare systems. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the role of medical social workers in hospice care becomes increasingly critical. Their ability to address root causes of distress, navigate complex family dynamics, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration exemplifies the necessity of their role in advancing equitable and effective end-of-life care.

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